Library News & Notes: Library 'Thinks Different,' assists the community

Apple founder Steve Jobs literally and figuratively changed the world with his concept, Think Different. A visit to the library or to the library website will quickly demonstrate the vast difference technology and new communications skills have made. Aided by grants and a commitment to the future, the library is consistently adding new and more efficient ways to disseminate information and provide patrons with tools to enhance education, leisure and career opportunities.

YOUmedia and Youth Services

According to DePaul University's Nichole Pinkard, who first envisioned the amazing Chicago YOUmedia, a 5,500 square-foot space designed for all things digital and media oriented, "We are in one of these rare moments in time where what it means to be literate today, what it meant for us, is going to be different from what it means to be literate for our kids."

Parents, educators and librarians are now joining together to create spaces where kids can not only learn to read critically, but also to consume media critically and ideally produce it.

The youth services department of the Carson City Library, with the assistance of Say Design and local student input, has unveiled its latest innovation, the virtual library portal, www.ccteensdiscover.org.

Looking much like Harry Potter's Hogwarts Library, the site is a one-stop-shop that can be accessed with a library card. Students create an account according to grade level and launch one of several links: intellect, creativity and social interaction. Within "intellect" a patron can work with BrainFuse for online tutoring and writing assistance, online databases from Gale and Grolier and can even find career thoughts with interview tips, resume suggestions and student job suggestions.

"Creativity" echoes implementations from YOUmedia with links to Disney Junior Games Online for Kids, FunBrain.com, PBS kids, Kongregate, and Game Salad. "Social Interactions" allows students to post information on interactive forums relating to science, English and math.

Learning express helps with test preparation

In today's society, it seems there is always a test. Students begin testing before they enter kindergarten; standardized tests are given throughout all levels of school; and adults encounter a myriad of tests when applying for a job.

Learning Express, a database found on the library website under Online Research and "Careers and Jobs" is now being funded by the state so that all areas can use it (OverDrive is limited to the Carson City community) and, according to the site, "offers the practice tests, exercises, skill-building courses, eBooks, and information you need to achieve the results you want at school, at work, or in life.

Looking to land a job? You'll find an entire Learning Center dedicated to helping you get the one that's right for you.

For example, a student wishing to take the GED can find practice exams, preparation courses and guides, skills improvement, and Spanish-language GED Preparation. If purchased commercially, the cost would be prohibitive for many of those interested in improving their educational resume. ACT, PSAT and SAT test preparation also are available.

Safe trick-or treating for kids slated for Monday

From 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. Monday, the library will host a safe-trick-or-treating event, which will enable children to visit each desk in the library and receive a treat. Children can dress in their favorite costumes and take a tour of the library while they gather both treats and information about the many resources available at each station.

November programs

The Capital City Arts Initiative Books & Writers Series will feature Carson City poet Tracy McQuay, who will present a reading from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday and a writers' workshop from 11 a.m. to noon on Saturday. McQuay was granted an honorable mention award from the Nevada Arts Council Fellowship for her work writing for children and young adults. 

LEGO Club will be held from 10 a.m. until noon Saturday, Nov. 12. This date change is due to the Friends of the Library Book sale, which will be held from Nov. 17-19.