For the Love of Libraries--and Read a Banned Book

Happy Monday!

Like that nifty bracelet?
I picked it up for Banned Books Week (this week):
September 21-27th

And in case you want to read a banned book in honor of the right to read, check out this article on 33 Must-Read Banned Books: here.

Anyhew, this ties in with my Library title.

I'm pretty involved with my local library, and right now we're creating a Strategic Plan for the next few years for it, which is basically, what we're going to plan to do/buy/make/build in the next few years that will support our mission statement.

Wow, did you ever think libraries actually did all that?

Well, I even went to a Library Conference a few weeks ago to learn more. (Not really by choice, but I'm glad I went) I really got a lot of cool ideas. Like, the NY Public Library put a photo booth in theirs so people visiting NYC can take a picture then tweet about the library, which is great for marketing as well.

Makerspaces are really big right now for libraries. Makerspaces are pretty much spaces in the library where people from the community can come together to learn or create something. Some people learn to knit, or create 3D robots, fix a flat tire, dissect radios, create videos or commercials. It really depends on your community and hobby need/want. Libraries are trying to stay current and viable by branching out and becoming more than just a warehouse of books.

I even got the suggestion to bring back phone booths in our library. Really? Yes, but without actual phones. Everybody has cellphones now, but no quiet place to use them. There was also a suggestion to put in video screens so people visiting can Skype friends and family.

The possibilities are endless.

Needless to say, once we start brainstorming in a few weeks, it's going to be very exciting and fun.

So I now I'm wondering, does your local library offer any cool programs or technologies?

How often do you use your local library?

What is your favorite banned book?