The Wall Street Journal exhorts its readers to be aware that while there is an emerging marketplace for readers to pay monthly fees for e-Books (a la Netflix), the public library remains the place where they are free and accessible to all. Three ULC member libraries (check out the article and find out which ones!) are mentioned as comparative examples of how libraries are growing their e-book collections and tailoring increasingly user-friendly lending policies to ensure their patrons have easy access. 

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has a free monthly webinar series designed to help librarians discuss financial issues with patrons. To participate in their next program, "Starting up the Conversation", click here on Wednesday, August 20 at 2 pm ET to join.The webinar will last 1 hour.

 And, if you would like to be notified of future webinars, or ask about in-person trainings for large groups of librarians, email [email protected]; subject: Library financial education training.
 

NYC Libraries Expand Access to Education 

Two recent articles call attention to the crucial role that NYC's three library systems play in delivering learning opportunities to people of all ages. As NYC gears up for a much publicized effort to provide universal access to Pre-K programs, Queens Library is joining the effort. With funding from the NYC Department of Education, the library will begin offering a structured Pre-K program in September at its Woodhaven branch. Thirty families vied for enrollment in the initial class which will serve 18 young learners. To prepare, the library renovated a storage room into a classroom space, transformed an area behind the library into an outdoor space for children and is hiring 3 new staff, including a teacher certified in early learning.

The New York Times reports that the city's three library systems are experiencing huge demand for English language and literacy programs. As one participant in a NYPL program commented, "I need to learn English....Every job, the first question is, 'You know English?' " 

Libraries and Economic Development    

D.C. Public Library - Digital Commons

Fast Company reports that according to a study from the Information Policy & Access Center, over one-half of public libraries now offer some type of workspace for "mobile" workers - ranging from free-lance consultants to small-business start-ups.  The D.C. Public Library, featured prominently in the article, received attention for its space, Digital Commons. According to DCPL Director, Richard Reyes-Gavilan, ""Libraries have always been a place for personal betterment. We are providing a space for people to get a leg up on their lives, whether that's someone running their own business or getting their library card for the first time so they're better able to tackle first grade."   

Find out more about the opportunities and challenges of this growing phenomenon!

The Importance of Play in Learning

Increasing attention is focused on the important role of play in learning and development - for people of all ages, especially children. On September 13, the Sacramento Public Library hosts its second "Sacramento Play Summit" which features  Dr. Stuart Brown, founder of the National Institute for Play as a keynote speaker. National Public Radio recently interviewed Dr. Brown - listen in!