Public libraries are bringing in resources to fit community needs

CALHOUN COUNTY, Miss. (WCBI) – When is the last time you used your library card?

With the rise of digital media and e-books, some people have turned away from what was once the only place to find a wide variety of information.

Traditionally, libraries are known to be a good place to open a book and read.

While that’s still true today, libraries are beginning to focus more on the people reading the books.

In today’s world, public libraries are getting a second look as a valuable resource.

“They are thriving. I know a lot of people think they’re not but there are those people that think the library is only about books, hardback books but it’s not like that anymore. We’ve had to conform and we had to roll with the times,” said branch manager Janice Vaughn.

On average, Jesse Yancy Memorial Library in Calhoun County has 40 visitors a day.

Vaughn said libraries are evolving into institutions that focus more on the quality of information, not only for longtime users, but also for their youngest patrons.

“Several of our elementary classes come at the beginning of each school year. Kindergartens do a walkthrough just to make them familiar that the library is here for them. Fourth graders actually get their first library card and get to check out a book so that’s neat we get to do that for them,” said Vaughn.

Although libraries may be looked at as a powerhouse for all things books, they are now offering young adults real-world programs in college and career readiness and technology.

“A lot of people come here to fill out job applications, everything is just about online now so they have to come, especially people who don’t have computers at home or who don’t know about a computer. They come here and help them access the applications and stuff. If they take online classes online, they can come here and we are able to proctor their test that they take,” said Vaughn.

Vaughn said she and her staff are always here for their community’s needs.

“We offer a lot of things besides just books,” said Vaughn.

For more information on what services your local library has available, make the trip and check them out.