Are Libraries Untapped Resources?

Have you stopped by your local library lately? Overlooked by many who are no longer in school, these icons of information are worth a visit. Libraries hold a distinguished place in public schools, universities, institutions and communities. While online resources abound, libraries are brick and mortar buildings that house a wealth of knowledge and literature. They are a stable presence on most city's landscapes that welcome all those you love to read and at a price that can't be beat.


The Plethora of Library Offerings
Until you've taken the time to tour a library you cannot imagine how much they have to offer. Aside from the stacks containing fiction, non-fiction, educational and resource books, periodicals and magazines, they boast a number of useful and necessary services.

• Media. You are literally surrounded by CDs, DVDs, videotapes, video games, e-books, audio books and more. Just pull out your library card or key chain card, swipe and borrow for three weeks or more. You can also go online to extend the time you may keep them.
• Internet. Some families are not privileged to own a computer that has online access. No problem when you're a member of the library. There are generally several and some have a link to an in-house printer as well.
• Courses. Libraries offer introductory and elementary computer classes that help beginners with the basics of computers as well as the more commonly known software programs such as Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
• Conference Rooms. If you need to hold a meeting and have no place to go, many libraries can supply you with a room and even an overhead projector, microphone and other necessary tools to conduct your meeting in a professional environment.

Grow with Your Library
Libraries are kid-friendly. Many offer children's story time with relevant activities. Moms, dads or babysitters can have a little reading time, sitting close by while their youngster is learning listening skills, being entertained and interacting with the other children in the group.

School aged children learn to use the library's resources in their school libraries. This continues on into their senior years in college. The hushed atmosphere of the library is conducive to studying and conducting research but in later years, as adults, can be a quiet place to read: a place that is devoid of ringing telephones, intercoms and other distractions. If you haven't visited your library in a while you are missing out on a wealth of knowledge and a comfortable environment that provides so much more than thousands of book titles. It is a world unto itself.

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Blog written by Deborah Desser-Herchan, American Van Lines correspondent.