by Natasha Swiger
Recent studies by the American Library Association (ALA) have shown that there is a growing rate of library use from Millenial and Gen Z populations that continues to increase each year. This isn’t surprising as libraries have become a very impactful community hub, offering free materials, programs, and events as well as an increasingly large catalog of accessible digital resources. These Gen Z and Millennial people may have “grown-up” in the library, first entering as children and remaining dedicated patrons today. There seems to be a large number of people re-discovering what libraries offer, and I am beginning to witness more and more of them experiencing a library for the first time. I, admittedly, was not the typical “library kid”. I would utilize my card to check out materials here and there but never remained a regular patron of any library until well into my adulthood. I am realizing now that, boy, did I miss out!
Today’s libraries are full of resources for every age. The Adams County Library System’s (ACLS) expansive digital resources are something I highlight with every new patron who walks through our library’s door. Are you interested in ebooks or audiobooks? cloudlibrary is going to be your best friend. Do you prefer to stream your television series and films rather than use a DVD player? Kanopy is our newest streaming resource. If magazines are more your reading style, we’ve got you covered with yet another digital resource, cloudLibrary’s NewsStand. Our offering of free digital resources continuously blows me away, as you can access all of these resources and more with just one library card.
Collaborations between local organizations and ACLS are apparent when you step foot into any of our six branches and find endless resources and opportunities to seek out how these organizations impact our community. Whether it’s posted on a public community board or a display of pamphlets, business cards and flyers, your local library is your gateway to finding local resources in your community and to benefit you, it’s all in one place.
Library staff are here with open arms, ready to fill you in on everything that takes place in or around the library. I know from personal experience that I often find myself reminding prospective patrons that libraries are more than just books. If you can’t find it in writing, surely one of our friendly librarians at the circulation desk may be able to unearth what you’re looking for; all you have to do is ask!
Natasha Swiger is the branch manager of the New Oxford Library, part of the Adams County Library System.