The San Diego Public Library Does Much More Than Check Out Books

By Carol Cooper


In the new world of social media, video games, phone apps, and online searching, it might seem like libraries are only for elderly readers. Students who are actually required to turn in book reports might read a version online or download it for a fee. All this can make the idea of libraries seem passe, but the best ones, like the San Diego Public Library, have reinvented themselves. They are offering all kinds of services, many of which are free with a current card.

Students and their parents often struggle with homework assignments. A number of organizations have after school programs, but there are costs attached to most that can be too high for strapped mothers and fathers. Fortunately, free homework help is available at this facility after school, and at some locations, every day of the week. Kids can get tutored, have access to free school materials, and get online at the library. Teachers and volunteers offer their services to school age children from kindergarten through high school.

Literacy is a big problem in the United States, especially in areas that are home to large populations of poor people. Some of them have learning disorders, lacked access to educational opportunities, or are simply unable to speak English well enough to communicate effectively. These people will remain in the cycle of poverty without help. In San Diego, free programs provided by libraries offer tutoring and mentoring through community volunteers.

Mental health issues are another big problem in the country that affect a fifth of the population. Libraries in this city provide individuals with professional help in gaining access to housing opportunities, medical attention, counseling, and nutritious meals. They also assist them with educational and employment opportunities.

Libraries can be intimidating places for people with disabilities. There are libraries that have made special areas available where disabled individuals can come to read, work and relax. There are adjustable tables and workstations. Computers with special software and extra large screens and all kinds of audio, Braille, and large print books are available.

Not all families are lucky enough to be able to afford personal computers in their homes. In today's world, this can make everything complicated. Libraries have banks of computers available for patrons to use free of charge. This includes internet access, printing, and photocopying. In many of the facilities there are specific computers designated for children.

The San Diego library is one of a network of patent and trademark resource centers officially designated by the federal government's patent office. Researching patents can be extremely difficult and time consuming. Library staff do not provide legal advice or conduct searches on the behalf of patrons, but they can guide them and give them valuable assistance.

Publicly funded places where people can go for free information and assistance seem to be getting rarer. Not everyone is lucky enough to have internet access. Libraries are wonderful resources for many and have important functions to fill. They certainly have more than books to provide patrons wise enough to take advantage of the resources they offer.




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