Libraries and new age of enlightenment

(Source: http://cynthianalibrary.org/)

It’s been a while since everybody started talking about the need to redefine the role and services of libraries in the digital age. Besides enabling the access to Internet, libraries (could) serve as great place for acquiring and developing computer literacy and programming skills.

As a librarian, I believe in ‘old’ and ‘traditional’ role of libraries and I adore entering a library and getting lost in between shelves and shelves of books. But the idea of libraries as makerspaces and hackerspaces also brings me joy. Tom Mullaney’s article Chicago Tribune is great in depicting the process of reimagining the library as an engaged community center.

The example of Evergeeen Branch library in San José shows another way how libraries can get involved in their community. Library offered their space to well known programme Girls Who Code whose aim is to provide computer science education to young women. “Together with leading educators, engineers, and entrepreneurs, Girls Who Code has developed a new model for computer science education, pairing intensive instruction in robotics, web design, and mobile development with high-touch mentorship and exposure led by the industry’s top female engineers and entrepreneurs. Girls Who Code launched in 2012 with one program in New York City, and in just one year expanded its Summer Immersion Program to 8 programs in 5 cities nationwide.” (About Us)

Another great example is collaborative computer class for preschool kids called Little Clickers held at Chidren’s library at Darien Library, Connecticut. “The program is conducted as a registered, 6-session series for children ages 3-5.”

So, librarians, hackers, makers and programmers – unite! There’s an ocean of young minds to conquer.