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Geauga libraries offer haven in tough times
(by Joseph Koziol Jr. - February 18, 2009)
Geauga libraries offer haven in tough times
By JOSEPH KOZIOL JR.
When the going gets tough, the tough get going to the local public libraries.
That was the message delivered to Chardon Township Trustees earlier this month, when Geauga County Public Library Director Deborah F. O'Connor paid a visit.
She told the trustees and audience that the library is a cheap alternative to entertainment, education and self-improvement. "When times get tough, the library is a cheap place to go, and it's a lot of fun as well," Mrs. O'Connor said.
She said she had been making the round to every township, village and city in the county to tell of the offerings the library has for those looking to stretch their budgets.
With seven facilities throughout the county, the library is always close by to help people with virtually every aspect of their life, she said. "We're very aware that all of us are having a hard time."
She said the library has already seen an increase in use because of the lagging economy. "When times are tough, they remember us," she said.
Those looking for the latest releases from their favorite authors can find those books the same day that book stores receive them, she said.
Virtually all best sellers as well as old favorites can be found at the library.
Besides books, the library offers a host of programs to help the homeowner. She said a recent program to help people make their homes more saleable drew 75 people. This spring, she said, the library will be offering a program on landscaping on a dime.
Reference books, such as those on medical and financial planning issues, also are available to assist people.
And, the library's computers stand ready to help virtually everyone to research a host of subjects. Mrs. O'Connor said the library spent approximately $85,000 to access databases that people would normally have to pay for. She said certain pay sites can be accessed for free on the library's computers.
The library also offers a myriad of audio-visual entertainment. She said the Geauga system was the second in the nation to get digital versatile discs. Most can be rented for the minimal cost of $1 and includes some of television's favorite shows, such as" Lost," "24" and "Mary Tyler Moore." Blue Ray discs, compact discs, and books on compact discs are also available.
Numerous video games are also available, Mrs. O'Connor said.
She said those wishing to download books onto their Ipods or MP3s or a computer can do so at the library.
She said the library even holds classes to teach people how to use a computer. She said senior citizens have taken advantage of the classes, including one called "Meet the Mouse." For many seniors, she said, it can be their first experience with computers. She said some picked up the mouse and pointed it at the screen as though it were a remote control.
The library also hosts programs that may lead to employment. Mrs. O'Connor said programs instruct people how to write resumes and cover letters that will get the attention of employers.
"Your library card is the key to all of this," she said.
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