I set out to begin to answer this question through a couple of targeted conversations. I first met with a group of teens and asked them what they know about library programs. As expected, story time comes up. Libraries are known for story time. Libraries are also known for summer reading. But how many realize that summer reading is for all ages birth through adult? Not the teens that I was having a conversation with. So, this conversation illuminated the fact that somewhere communication is breaking down and this group of young people offered some concrete ways that we can address this issue. It was a very beneficial discussion.
So, what about a totally different group with different needs. Maybe they already know what is going on at the library, but they don’t see how it can benefit them. I met with a group of adults, and it became clear that we were offering learning opportunities for young people, but there was an older generation that could gain from computer training and crafting programs also. As a result of this conversation, we will be adding computer training for adults in the near future.
So, the library really is more than just books and we want you to know about it. Yes, we do a lot of children’s programming designed to encourage literacy. We do a lot of programming to address summer learning slide and exploration of STEM. We host book clubs and coloring groups and will continue to expand to meet the interests of our community. And it can all start with a conversation. Let us know what you are interested in, and then give us some ideas for how to get the word out. Or maybe just plan to attend and bring a friend!