Wednesday 13 December 2017

The San Diego Public Library Isn't Just About Checking Out Books

By Carol Cooper


In the new world of social media, video games, phone apps, and online searching, it might seem like libraries are only for elderly readers. Students who are actually required to turn in book reports might read a version online or download it for a fee. All this can make the idea of libraries seem passe, but the best ones, like the San Diego Public Library, have reinvented themselves. They are offering all kinds of services, many of which are free with a current card.

Getting homework done correctly and on time can be difficult for many students. Parents aren't always helpful and the organizations that offer after school programs normally charge a weekly or monthly fee not all families can afford. In many instances, libraries have stepped into the breech offering free school materials, online access, and tutoring for kids with cards. Volunteers and teachers take their time to help kids from five to eighteen with school assignments at no charge.

Many adults who struggle with literacy due to a learning disability, lack of educational opportunities, or because English is not their first language. Whatever the reasons, an illiterate adult has a hard time performing simple tasks, getting a job, and even getting from one place to another. In San Diego, there are free programs with professionals working with volunteer tutors in the community to reduce the percentage of adults who struggle with this every day.

A lot of individuals with mental health issues and no insurance become homeless and dangers to themselves and the rest of society. The San Diego system has programs staffed by professionals who are willing to work, free of charge, with these individuals. They direct them to housing, education, counseling, and medical assistance.

Even with federal laws that make easy access to government buildings a requirement, those with accessibility issues still have problems. Libraries in San Diego have areas where individuals with disabilities can read and research with ease. There are adjustable workstations and tables. Audio, large print, and Braille books are available. They also offer special assistance software on computers with enlarged screens.

Not all families are lucky enough to be able to afford personal computers in their homes. In today's world, this can make everything complicated. Libraries have banks of computers available for patrons to use free of charge. This includes internet access, printing, and photocopying. In many of the facilities there are specific computers designated for children.

The San Diego library is one of a network of patent and trademark resource centers officially designated by the federal government's patent office. Researching patents can be extremely difficult and time consuming. Library staff do not provide legal advice or conduct searches on the behalf of patrons, but they can guide them and give them valuable assistance.

Modern libraries aren't just for people who love to read books. They are publicly funded facilities that offer all kinds of free services to anyone who takes out a card and is a member in good standing. You never know what you might find the next time you visit your local library.




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