Library Offers Much More Than Just Books

The following is an excerpt from the article "Library Offers Much More Than Just Books", which appears in the March/April 2008 edition of Your Kitchener magazine.

It’s a service that often flies under the radar – with few people realizing its many elements fulfill the educational, recreational and social needs of thousands of Kitchener residents on a daily basis.

In fact, 3,400 people visit at least one of its different locations across the community each day – making it one of the city’s busiest resources. Yet, there’s a common perception in the community that its popularity is passé… that the ever-expanding world of technology has lessened its worth.

That couldn’t be farther from the truth, says Sonia Lewis, chief executive officer of the Kitchener Public Library (KPL) system.

“The KPL is still one of the most heavily used city services,” she said. “More than half of Kitchener’s residents are library card holders; and in 2007, more than two million items were checked out of our libraries across the city.”

By items, Lewis means everything from books and reports to CDs and DVDs.

“We offer a lot more than just books,” she said. “While books are still very important and in high demand, we also offer efficient electronic services to help people find the information they need; a skilled staff who are always willing to assist visitors who may not know how to use some of our services; and a variety of programs – something for every age level."

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Given the library’s universal usefulness and appeal, many people are changing their perception of the facility.

“There are still some people who still equate the library with books only, and they see it as a place their grandparents like to go,” Lewis said. “But that’s just not the case.

“We offer something for everyone – no matter who you are or how old you are.”

For example, the library recently hosted a Nintendo Wii tournament for youth.

“Our research has told us that gaming does help with reading and literacy skills,” Lewis said. “It proved to be an extraordinary way to draw teenagers through our doors; and when they were here, they got to see what else we have to offer and interact with others their age.”

Other efforts -- such as organizing community outreach work, which sees library volunteers deliver books to shut-ins and staff make presentations at local schools; promoting the work of local artists; providing contest opportunities for young writers; and offering interesting speaker series and film viewings -- continue to highlight the facility’s services to the community.

“There’s no question that the library contributes to the quality of life in Kitchener; and more and more people are realizing what we bring to the table,” Lewis said.

“You won’t find anyone ‘shushing’ you here – something many people still associate with libraries.

“We are encouraging people to come here, have fun and enjoy themselves. That’s what makes us the dynamic, lively environment that we are.”

Click here to read the full article (pdf)