The Social Library, Volume 20
We're excited to be sharing Volume 20 in our Social Library series, with libraries engaging their communities in strategic planning, showcasing local artists, and supporting digital literacy. WebJunction appreciates the opportunity to showcase the great work we're learning about through these libraries we follow on Facebook, and we hope their activities and programs are as inspirational to you and your library as they are to us.
- South San Francisco Public Library is holding two Strategic Plan Community Forums this month: "South San Francisco Public Library has begun a journey of seeking the future and creating a Strategic Plan - and we need your help! We are hosting two community forums to discuss the future of the South San Francisco libraries, and want to give as many of you as possible the opportunity to engage in this process and provide input on a variety of topics, including library service needs today and into the future. Snacks and beverages will be served and we expect a lively, participatory atmosphere!"
- The Big Rapids Community Library in Michigan hosted an AnyHero Mail event at their library last week. The local news helped to promote the event, inviting the community to come out and make cards for people serving in all branches of the military. The library provided all the supplies for kids and their families can come write letters or draw pictures for troops. "It’s called "AnyHero" mail because the letters will go out to people who get little to no mail from home." The library will continue to collect letters through the middle of the month.
The Manatee County Public Library in Florida has received some wonderful media attention for their Tech Buddies program which pairs teens with seniors who are looking to explore new technologies. The story on Sarasota's YourObserver.com, Tech Buddies shatters digital age gap, showcases the Braden River Branch Library's Tech Buddies program, and the 9 local students volunteering during the summer months, earning community service hours for school by helping seniors who want to learn to navigate the 21st century technology landscape. Appointments can be made during a two-hour window each Wednesday during the summer, and drop-ins are welcome!
- The Pikes Peak Library District in Colorado has put out a Call for Artists interested in showing their art in one of the library district's 12 art galleries. "The Pikes Peak Library District Art Evaluation Committee will be jurying art for future 1-2 month individual shows. Interested artists should bring five representative pieces of their body of work in show-ready format (matted, framed, and wired for photos, drawings, prints, etc.; wired for other 2D or 3D art). All submissions must include a completed Art Exhibit Application."
- The Kansas City Public Library in Missouri shared news of their deputy director of strategic initiatives, Cheptoo Kositany-Buckner, as featured in the Kansas City Star story, Bridging the digital divide takes a community effort. The article explains the current Internet connectivity issues in Kansas City, and the important work the library is doing to address digital inclusion.
We look forward to seeking out next week's treasures from those we follow on Facebook. If you have innovative and impactful programs going on at your library that you'd like to showcase, let us know at [email protected], or find us on Facebook.
Thanks to all of this week's featured libraries for such outstanding service to your communities!