This season for many of us looks a little different professionally than we might have imagined. As some libraries softly launch more in-person interactions, others may be in a constant state of preparation only to discover that making plans is extremely challenging in this current state. Many institutions have determined that moving forward there will always be space for virtual offerings in their service models. While we all have some sense of wishing to unplug, I am trying to reflect on how technology has allowed us to connect in unique ways over the past year and a half. I\u2019m also looking to the future to see how virtual offerings might not necessarily be the end to purposeful experiences for the communities we serve. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Last week was our first visit to the local Teen Center for a small session of my library\u2019s Adult 101 program. Except for special circumstances, outreach for the most part will continue to be virtual for kids, teens, and adults. As we were eager to start student visits and re-enter schools, looking back on the year we spent hosting virtual visits to the library we were actually able to reach more students via Zoom. Traveling to the library is sometimes a barrier for certain groups, so using a phone and portable tripod became ideal for virtual tours. There were even classrooms that saw areas of the library that are usually not accessible such as the book sorting room. It was worth it just to hear a hundred unmuted kids shouting \u201cWow!\u201d all at the same time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are ways that technology can improve how libraries collaborate. In a big system, branches and communities have the potential to connect in new ways through programming or service projects. Hosting a joint book group or advocacy program online will open up conversations and learning opportunities that might not happen with kids in the same neighborhood. Thinking globally? Whether you are located in a school media center or public library, reach out to other libraries around the world who might be interested in a collaborative project. Organizations like Roots & Shoots<\/a> have resources available for student groups. If you want to co-host a STEAM activity, view the Exploratorium\u2019s Teaching and Learning tools<\/a>. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Libraries can also continue to provide learning opportunities on their websites, much like we saw in the spring of 2020. El Segundo Library in California provides a robust list of educational links for all ages called Free Your Mind Resources.<\/a> While we might have assumed that updating these at-home activities might have subsided, the quality of resources libraries can showcase to patrons has only grown. Patrons have thoroughly enjoyed the increased number of virtual author talks that have happened over the past year courtesy of publishers, book stores, and creators. Giving kids the chance to see and engage with their favorite writers and illustrators on the screen is something that budgets might have restricted in the past. <\/p>\n\n\n\n