Public Libraries

I know I don't write about public libraries much...not because I don't appreciate them, but just because in the past it wasn't an interest of mine to work at one.  But boy, do I love how much the libraries near me offer.  On the website alone you can access free courses, language classes, test prep programs, and more.  Plus, the website boasts a computer lab that includes computers specifically for searching the library catalogs, plus computers for general population use.

Because there was such a focus on technology and access, I made a hasty assumption that the physical library would be less current...you know, because it would be spreading the staff too thin.  And I was very, very wrong.  It was clean, the staff was friendly, the reference desk was manned, and there were three floors of well-stocked books.

As I said, I've always appreciated public libraries, but I've never found one to be so interesting, maybe because I've always been in places where there were budget cuts and the library was very limited in its ability to expand.

I'll keep you updated on whether or not the online courses are any good...I've already started one and it's quite a blast!

**Update: The courses are pretty decent, although it depends on the school/professor they are offered through.  I've taken two "fluffy" courses I had a passing interest in (creative writing and drawing) and one scientific course (psychology) and am preparing to begin a history course.  The professors don't always provide feedback immediately (who can blame them) but in one of my classes the feedback was frequently "assignment completed" which was unhelpful since I really wanted to learn more.  Otherwise, they have been very informative.

On an unrelated notes...Sunflowers are blooming everywhere here!