I'll admit it. I'm a goner for libraries. It goes way back. I did a whole project on libraries in Camp Fire. I hung out at the Cedar Rapids Public Library whenver I could. I actually talked to the librarian about what she did. I'm sure I was a total nuisance, but there you go. My family groans every time we go to a new city. "Mom has to go the library," they whine. But really, they love libraries almost as much as I do. My husband is demanding of his "personal librarian." I must track down most of the books mentioned on "Morning Joe" or NPR. We are all readers. Even my youngest, who is dyslexic, has learned to enjoy reading.
Why do I love libraries? Let me count the ways . . . First of all they are free. I grew up in a one-income, working class family and buying books was just not in the budget. I could get whatever I wanted at either the bookmobile or the downtown library. Secondly, it was a great place to hang out and meet all kinds of kids from all across the city. Thirdly, I thought all the information in the world was there. Anytime I needed something, no matter what they subject, they had it. And now libraries are truly connected to the whole world. You can get access to almost anything through your library. And it's still free. Let me know why you love libraries and I will share in a future blog.
I want to alert you to a new service we will be offering in the coming weeks. All of our branches will be installing the IowaWorks, Virtual Access Point software. This platform will allow you to apply for unemployment insurance, look for jobs, even learn typing skills and create a resume. It is very easy to use and unlike the IowaWorks offices, will be available anytime the library is open. It also good for students looking at career information and for employers who want to research market trends or post jobs. I'll keep you posted as we install the new program across the system.
Don't forget our All Iowa Reads discussion of "Strength in What Remains" by Tracy Kidder is next Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at our NICC/Peosta branch. You still have time to read the book. Copies are available at all our branches along with discussion questions. Lisa Hendershott and I will be leading the discussion.
Other big news: The first issue of the Friends of DCL newsletter just hit the stands, er, branches. Liz Mehan, an Asbury Friends member, designed and edited the premier edition. It has library news, Friends activities, new titles at the library, program information, and more. You can even submit a review and we will publish it in this montly publication. Stop by and pick up a copy today. Thank you Friends!
Remember Asbury, Epworth and Holy Cross are closed on Monday for President's Day. Drexler/Farley will be open 10-3 and NICC/Peosta will be open regular hours 7-8.
Enjoy the weekend.
Dawn
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