vendredi 15 décembre 2017

The San Diego Public Library Does Much More Than Check Out Books

By Carol Cooper


There was a time when libraries were places where most people got the books they wanted to read and did research by browsing through huge encyclopedias and thick volumes of reference materials. Today, books are just a download away, and you can look up anything if you have internet access and some sense. Many consider public institutions like libraries a thing of the past, but there are facilities like the San Diego Public Library that are offering a host of important, and free, services.

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.

Literacy is a big problem in the United States, especially in areas that are home to large populations of poor people. Some of them have learning disorders, lacked access to educational opportunities, or are simply unable to speak English well enough to communicate effectively. These people will remain in the cycle of poverty without help. In San Diego, free programs provided by libraries offer tutoring and mentoring through community volunteers.

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.

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.

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.

San Diego is included in a network of libraries officially designated by the federal government as patent and trademark resource centers. Patent research can be time consuming and complicated. Staff members are available to give assistance, but they are not lawyers, don't give legal advice, or do the research for their patrons.

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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