Western Counties Public Libraries Offer Value to the Community

EDUCATION--Western Counties Public Libraries Offer Value to the Community

The following is a feature on the services offered by the Western Counties public libraries in recognition of Public Library Week, Oct. 21-27.

The Western Counties public libraries just aren't what they used to be. In fact, they're a whole lot more.

Just ask Daisy Buchanan who, last summer, at 80 years old, took some computer training from the Lockeport Branch Library in Shelburne County and learned how to use e-mail.

Before long, Ms. Buchanan had mastered the basics and sent many messages to her grandchildren in Halifax. Since then, she has used e-mail regularly at the library, which allows her to correspond with a cousin in California.

"It just boggles my mind," she said.

The Lockeport Library is a wonderful example of the service public libraries offer communities, but it is not alone: libraries across the region, and across the province, are doing the same.

New technologies adopted by public libraries provide exciting new learning opportunities that otherwise would not be available to many individuals.

Public Internet access, computer classes and training, educational programming, virtual libraries and online full-text magazine collections available to the public have transformed public libraries. Now, they connect communities and give people the opportunity to reach all points of the globe without leaving the comfort of their home towns.

And just as it is now possible for a child to learn how to use a computer, it is still possible for that child to develop a love of reading by picking up a picture book. Students now have the option of researching projects online or by sifting through encyclopedia collections and other printed reference materials. An adult who has never been online before can learn Internet navigation skills, then take home a book by their favourite author.

A visit to the public library offers many fun, rewarding and educational experiences. Many people use the library to stay in touch with friends and others in their community or to participate in book clubs and computer courses. As well, children can take part in summer reading programs and other activities.

Although libraries have broadened their services to include access to technology and community-oriented programs they haven't forgotten their roots. Public libraries are founded on the premise that learning is a lifelong endeavour. They support the individual's quest for knowledge, training and education and foster inclusiveness, supporting those without access to the Internet and other technology for training, employment, leisure or communication.

Stories of people benefiting from lifelong learning at their regional library are as numerous as they are heartwarming. At libraries around the province, new Canadians learn English as a second language, seniors learn how to e-mail their grandchildren and people without computer experience take courses that help them find employment.

Never before have the opportunities for communication and education been expanding as quickly as they are today. Local libraries are key to these learning adventures and the possibilities are boundless.