7 unexpected things that libraries offer besides books
Libraries today provide the public with access to new technologies and education, and they serve as a community’s anchor institution. Here are seven examples of libraries that are more than just book-bibliophile delights from across the United States.
Robots
The Westport Free Library in Connecticut has a Robot Open Lab where members of the public can learn to program robots. The library’s two robots, Vincent and Nancy, are autonomous, programmable humanoid robots that have been programmed by over 2,000 people since September 2014.
Wi-Fi for your home
Some libraries have Wi-Fi hotspot lending programs that allow patrons to access the internet from home, while others have collections of laptops, e-readers, and MP3 players available for check out, and libraries such as the Chicago Public Library have loaner programs for those who may not have the financial resources.
Creation tools
Makerspaces are public labs with advanced technical equipment such as 3D printers and laser cutters. The goal is to expose people to technology as a means of education and empowerment, not to start their own new tech company. The Chattanooga Public Library in Tennessee has a maker space.
Recording studios
Cardholders can check out up to three tools at a time for one week from Chattanooga’s extensive hand- and power-tool collection. The city also has a fully functional music studio with a studio instructor available to help inspire, educate, and spark creativity.
Open data
The new OPEN Government Act requires federal agencies to make data on anything from health to crime available to the public, with the benefits including informed debate, better decision-making, and the development of innovative new services. Chapel Hill Public Library in North Carolina provides Chapel Hill Open Data.
Unique collections
Libraries are places where people can learn about and appreciate the unique and artistic aspects of life. The Seed Library at Duluth Public Library in Minnesota offers community varieties of tomato, pepper, bean, and pea seeds, and the American Girl doll collection at Arlington Public Library is available for borrowing.
Health care
Nurses and social workers are on-site every weekday to talk about mental and physical health at the Free Library of Philadelphia, which is one of the world’s largest public library systems. The Miami Library in Oklahoma has made health literacy a central part of its operations.
What services do libraries offer?
What are the most important services that libraries should provide?
- Borrowing books.
- Free access to computers and the internet.
- Quiet study spaces for adults and children.
- Programs and classes for children and teenagers.
- Research resources such as free databases.
- Job, employment, and career resources.
What is a library without books?
Bookless libraries are public, academic, and school libraries that have no printed books and instead offer all-digital collections of literary works, reading materials, and scientific and academic research materials.
What are the types of library services?
Libraries are classified into four categories based on the services they provide to their patrons:
- Academic libraries, special libraries, public libraries, and the National Library are all examples of libraries.
What do libraries lend?
Kindles, board games, power tools, and even musical instruments are now available for loan at a growing number of libraries.
What should you not do in a library?
When you first walk into the library, you should:
- Do not announce your arrival to others in the vicinity of the entrance
- also, do not ask the man sitting at computer #2 what type of sandwich he is eating for lunch (we can all smell tuna).
What do modern libraries offer?
Libraries connect people to people in addition to connecting people to information; they are safe havens for children when school is not in session, offering after-school homework help, games, and book clubs; and they offer computer classes, allowing older adults to stay engaged in the digital world.
Where is the book less Library located?
On Saturday, the public can visit the Bexar County Digital Library, a $2.4 million, 4,000-square-foot facility on San Antonio’s south side known as BiblioTech.
What are the 7 types of library?
Academic libraries serve colleges and universities, public libraries serve cities and towns of all types, and school libraries serve students in kindergarten through grade twelve. Special libraries are found in specialized settings such as hospitals, corporations, museums, the military, private industry, and the government.
What are examples of library?
A library is defined as a collection of books, or a room or a building where collections of books are stored; an example of a library is ten mystery novels that you own, or a room in your house with bookshelves and lots of books.
What are the examples of special library?
Corporate libraries, government libraries, law libraries, medical libraries, museum libraries, and news libraries are examples of special libraries.
What can you see inside a library list?
So here’s a list of 12 things you can borrow from the library that aren’t books:
- Telescopes.
- Museum passes.
- Artwork.
- A community garden plot.
- Energy meters.
- Cake pans.
- Tools.
- Bones.
What was the first lending library?
The Franklin Public Library in Franklin, Massachusetts, was America’s first lending library, and the town’s name was changed from Exeter to Franklin in honor of Dr. Benjamin Franklin in 1778, when the town was incorporated.
What are the steps to borrow a book from the library?
How to Borrow a Book: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Perform a library search to see if the item is available. If not, click here to learn how to reserve an item.
- Locate on the shelves. Use library signage and floor plans to navigate your way around the library to find items with the call number/classmark.