A new chapter for libraries

to “do-it-yourself” will enjoy Creative Bug, an online platform with hundreds of classes on crafts and making. Those looking for digital reads can access ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines and newspapers from around the world with no risk of late fees.

The City Centre branch’s Innovation Hub (1169 Pinetree Way) is home to 3D printers, computers loaded with design software and virtual reality equipment. The library strives to reduce barriers to accessing and learning about new technologies, giving people the tools they need to bring creative projects to life. Programs for kids The library maintains at least one long-standing offering — story times for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. These popular sessions help prepare young children for school and encourage a lifelong enjoyment of reading. The library also offers stories and activities for adults with developmental disabilities and their family members, friends and caregivers.

For students, the library offers Solaro, a learning tool based on the BC grades 4–12 curriculum as well as after school programs in which teens help younger students: Reading Buddies, Homework Help and ParlezNous en Français.

The focus on STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) in the BC curriculum has inspired the library to offer hands-on learning. An annual Science Expo allows grade 4–12 students to showcase their projects to a large audience. This year’s Expo is May 14, 2020, at the City Centre branch. Children learn by playing with the library’s Ozobot Bits and Sphero SPRKs, mini robots that can be coded to follow commands. These robots are available for loan, as are telescopes and tablets loaded with educational games.

A wealth of information and services can be found inbranch at City Centre Branch or Poirier Branch (575 Poirier Street), and beyond its physical walls. So, what are you waiting for? Sign up for a free library card today and see what it can do for you! n W hen was the last time you visited the library? If it’s been a while, you may be surprised to learn that libraries have significantly expanded beyond the traditional notions of hushed spaces and book borrowing. In fact, public libraries have kept pace with growing technological trends in information and education. Coquitlam Public Library (coqlibrary.ca) offers a variety of tools and programs to support everyone in our diverse community.

Todd Gnissios, executive director, says, “Your local library allows anyone to access information and resources from anywhere in the world to support lifelong learning.” In-person and online learning In addition to in-library programs such as small business seminars, career prep workshops and computer basics classes, library customers have access to learning databases like Lynda.com for software, business and design skills, and Transparent Online for language learning. Those inclined A new chapter for libraries LEARN SOMETHING NEW AT COQUITLAM PUBLIC LIBRARY By Jay Peters PHOTO COURTESY COQUITLAM PUBLIC LIBRARY COMMUNITY