Part 2 of my site visit to Auburn Public Library -

Taking a look at some of the services

As an assistive technology aid, Auburn Public Library has a computer located on the first floor that is designed to assist those who may be visually, or otherwise, impaired. In large, bold print, a sign adjacent to the computer outlines who the computer is reserved for. This unique keyboard is user friendly and is accompanied with a larger than usual screen.

 

Notice the bright yellow keyboard!!

Besides using computers, patrons can also use a fax machine and printers - both with a fee, and a coin operated photocopier.

Of the 82 computers in the APL, 17 of them are located within the reference services section. These computers are linked to the internet. APL has two T1 lines.The library uses MacAfee security  software in an effort to protect its computers. APL's policy on use of library computers cautions patrons that they cannot upload or download software onto or from library computers, as well as attempt in any other way to damage equipment or software. When issues do arise, whether large or small, APL has an onsite IT staff member. Of its 21 staff members listed on the Annual Report, also included is a full time webmaster.

According to APL's internet acceptable use policy, the library uses Open DNS internet filters "by complying in good faith with the Children's Internet Protection Act." However, patrons 18 years of age and older can request that the filter be disabled without question. The same policy states that children 17 years old and younger can also request that a filter be disabled with parental consent. The library does not play the role of parent, but will provide parents with information on guidelines for their children if requested. Before using the internet, all patrons must read and accept APL's "Internet Use and Internet Safety" policies. Parents of children younger than 14 years old have to sign a parental consent form before this age group uses an internet accessible library computer.

(Of course, many patrons come to the library with their laptop where they can access a free wireless connection.)

The Annual Report finds a total of 46,072 reference based questions asked within the past year. This means that the staff is busy answering a lot of inquiries on any given day! Some inquiries may be very specific such as those from patrons conducting some genealogy research who may also be interested in exploring the local history room in the library. Some patrons may simply wonder how to use  the online database or how to conduct a standard internet search. Staff may also provide "5 minute tutorials" on, for example, how to use Microsoft Explorer or how to set up a free email account.

Patrons needing more in-depth computer training may opt to take a free class in the Computer Lab on internet search techniques, web browsers, library database use or basic e-mail use. The lab has a total of 12 student computers, plus one for instructor use. The computers have internet access and are equipped with MS Office.

APL's Computer Lab

Looking at the library's October calendar finds "Computing with Maureen" each Wednesday morning from 9-11 as well as "Computer for beginners" happening in the last (complete) week of October on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday afternoons from 2-4. Lynn, the library director, informed me that those participants wishing to practice their newly learned skills can borrow one of of the library's laptops.

Looking for a job? APL's website has a job search link for you to explore. Need help with a resume? "Computers for job seekers" is a class that covers how to create a resume and send it electronically. If you're thinking of starting a business, the small business link can walk you through the steps.

Need a meeting room? Then you're in the right place. APL has a variety of spaces where you and a few people or a crowd can get together. Maybe you need a small space to study. If so, the library has three study rooms that you can reserve, that each accommodate up to six people.

Another place to meet is the 20' x 12' Conference room where the seating capacity is 25. The room is equipped with an LCD projector, portable VCR/DVD players and TV, overhead projector, slide projector, and a projector screen.

A much larger (48' x 30') Androscoggin Community Room seats up to 140 and is equipped with an audio system, ADA assistive listening devices, LCD projector, portable VCR/DVD players and TV, overhead projector, slide projector, and a projector screen.

Both the conference and community rooms can be used by for profit groups (at a fee) and non profit groups (some fees may apply).

Who doesn't get hungry when studying, conducting a business meeting or attending a conference? Well, you're in luck!! It doesn't take long to discover that "The Library Cafe" is located beneath the main library (just follow your nose!). Gourmet smells surround you as you make your way through the library (that owns and leases the space). Soon you envision yourself curled up on a couch while snacking and getting lost in a good book. You can stop in and grab breakfast or lunch or you can have an event catered.

                                          The Library Cafe has "Super-Fast Free Wi-Fi" !!

Checking out the cafe's menu finds a selection of literary cuisine as in a Poe Panini, or how about a Plath Panini? How about a Wharton Salad? Or maybe you're in the mood for a Dickinson Sandwich or a St. Vincent Millay.

In the next post we'll take a look at the teen and children's department and what fun initiatives are going on there. We'll also look at APL's social networking presence. See you there!