I thought libraries were where books were kept. What’s with all the computers?

Lets start with the facts: There are currently 19 computers available for use by adults, and four ready for young children to use. Additionally there are three used by the library staff allowing them to conduct their many administrative tasks in an efficient way.

The first computers available to patrons (that is you and I) were installed some time ago with their number and type growing with demand. At any given time, you will find eight to 10 being used by adults. Some of the things they do are: job searches, honing work place skills, developing resumes, GED Preparation, (elementary through high school), general research and citizenship preparation to name just a few of the “free services” the computers allow them to do. There is also a genealogy computer, which gives access to major genealogy databases, including extensive Mormon and Ellis Island resources.

The computers are all wireless. The children’s computers are grouped in their own separate area. With the remodeling of the facility, all computers will be WiFi compatible. This will allow for much greater flexibility for the users. If you chose to bring your lap-top, the Wireless Station is set-up for you and there is no charge.

So, how does a person get access to these computers? What does it cost?

Well, the good news is all you need is a valid library card! With that in hand, come in and sign-on. If you’ve never used our computers, tell one of the staff members that you wish to use one and they will help you to sign-in. To ensure that one or two folks don’t tie up a computer for too long, the computers actually time each user, thereby making sure that all folks have an opportunity to use it. The maximum usage period is 60 minutes, but this restriction is only imposed when demand warrants it.

Several other items can be accessed through the computers:

PINES – Access to hundreds of thousands of books, located among the 275 libraries in Georgia

Learning Express Library – Tutorial for job skills, practice tests etc.

Galileo – Links to North American, world-wide and religious genealogy resources. It is one of the largest research sites available

And access to all of these resources and fun sites is free!

For more information on the free offerings, go to www.uncleremus.org./greene.html, click on the “PINES” icon and others that you see. It shows your library has more than you ever imagined.

Well you say, but how about the kid’s usage? How can my child or grandchild begin

using a computer at the library? The children’s computers (used only by children 8 and under) are accessed without a library card. They sign-on by typing any letter(s) in the box. There are a number of age appropriate programs for them to access. Parents are asked to help the children until they are familiar with the programs.

So, you can see that your library is staying current by offering you the technology, which increases the services you deserve. Does that mean that books are on the way out or being replaced by computers? Not at all! There are still videos, books on tape, and DVDs. Instead, the computers are a very nice addition to what you library offers!

— From the Greene County Library Team