The Trail library boasts more than books these days with the addition of a dozen new computers recently hooked up for its members.
But on the technology front, it still has a long way to go when compared to facilities in large centres or at universities, said Barbara Gibson, chair of the library board.
“As far as technology goes, I think the library is behind the curve,” she said. “But we’re starting to keep up and I hope one day we’ll be riding the curve.”
Beyond concentrating on providing computer workspaces for its members, the library subscribes to e-books, allowing readers to access books online with their library cards for up to three weeks.
Already offering children’s programming, the library also plans to offer computer-based adult programs this year, with courses such as genealogy, Microsoft Office, power point, writing resumes, and basic computer training such as how to access information on the Internet.
Beyond striving to stay up-to-date online, the facility continues to bring in new products for its members, a goal since library director Belinda Wilkinson came on board.
The facility has about 1,500 new shelved titles, which include 220 picture and board books, 260 junior beginners, 440 junior fictions and 560 adult fictions. It has also invested in about 240 shelf-ready DVDs.
“We’re encouraging every parent and grandparent to make sure their kids have library cards,” said Trail city councillor Robert Cacchioni, who sits on the library board.
The library currently has about 3,070 members from Trail, Area B and Warfield, communities that pay into the facility’s operation, and around 1,100 B.C. One Card users, which gives readers access to any public library in the province.
With a fresh coat of paint and an emphasis on children, it’s no surprise that more people are taking advantage of what the facility offers, said Gibson, who noted that last month’s circulation of 6,280 was a jump from February 2009 when 5,070 titles were taken out.
“There’s always something new every time you go in there, people seem to be getting a lot out of it,” said Karen McDonnell, library board vice-chair.
While it’s still in the planning stages, Cacchioni says the library is trying to set up a book-drop outside on the street, making book returns easier for readers.