Patrons Can Do More Than Borrow Books At The San Diego Public Library

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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.

It is amazing to realize that, in this day and time, there are many people who can't read at all or read on such a low level that they are functionally illiterate. This is often the result of poverty, disability, and academic failure. Many immigrants don't read English. Without help, these people find it almost impossible to get decent jobs. The San Diego facilities are working with tutors who volunteer their time to teach adult reading and writing skills.

There is a free program in place to work with individuals who have mental health issues. They have professionals at the library available to consult with adults who are homeless or in need of medical attention. They can direct them to programs that have the resources to assist with education, housing, and counseling.

It can be difficult for those with disabilities to take advantage of the free resources that public libraries provide. In San Diego, those with disability issues have a special place where table and work station heights can be adjusted. There are Braille books, large print books, audio books, enlarged computer screens, and special assisting software.

Families without personal computers are at a disadvantage unless they have library cards. Libraries have banks of computers available to patrons during regular business hours. They are free to use and have access to the internet. Patrons who need to print out forms or articles or make photocopies can usually do so for a slight fee.

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.

Publicly funded places where people can go for free information and assistance seem to be getting rarer. Not everyone is lucky enough to have internet access. Libraries are wonderful resources for many and have important functions to fill. They certainly have more than books to provide patrons wise enough to take advantage of the resources they offer.




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