The last time I walked into my local library branch was well over two years ago. I used to make regular weekly visits, but as my children grew and my needs changed, I wandered away and let this valuable resource fall by the wayside.
With the recent passing of Gwinnett’s one percent special local option sales tax, local libraries are set to receive an estimated $22.4 million over the next six years. Libraries are being built and renovated, but what other changes might lure me back?
After speaking with Gwinnett County Library System’s Executive Director Charles Pace, I realized I’ve been missing tremendous innovations at our local libraries. Not only are local branches offering book talks with famous authors, and easier access to ebooks, but the system’s “Maker Movement” is creating content to draw in the public.
Programs include free workshops in robotics, weaving, sewing, painting, music editing and video production, to name just a few. The Peachtree Corners branch even hosts a monthly “Books in the Barbershop” program with haircuts, read alouds and crafts for young readers. Several branches now have 3D printers and classes to learn how to use them. Classes are geared to all ages from preschool to seniors.
“We’re talking, listening and focusing on what our communities want,” said Pace.
Librarians are no longer sitting quietly behind ominous desks. As part of their efforts to bring service to customers, librarians have mobile carts to “help you where you are” within the library’s various rooms.
GCPL is expanding bi-lingual offerings in Vietnamese, Chinese, Korean and Spanish to fill the necessities of Gwinnett’s diverse community. Classes are available for those who struggle with English as a second language, or for English speakers wanting to improve their Spanish.
By partnering with Gwinnett County Public Schools, the library allows student IDs to function as library cards, adding 100,000 new users to the system this year. Their partnership with Goodwill is providing career development and job training to expand the library’s footprint and reach people who need their resources the most. “This year our goal is to help 23,000 people find jobs,” said Pace.
Improved search functions and digital access to book and magazine formats make it easier than ever to take advantage of all the library has to offer.
SPLOST funds have already been set aside for new libraries in Duluth and Norcross, with more being discussed for Snellville and other locations in Gwinnett.
On my recent visit to Lilburn’s new city hall and public library building, library branch director Karen Harris eagerly toured me around the expansive facility. I admitted my lapse in using all the library has to offer. Harris invited me back and pointed out what should have been obvious to me all along. After all, as a Gwinnett taxpayer Harris noted, “You’ve already paid for it.”
Find your closest library, use your tax dollars and explore: www.gwinnettpl.org.
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