Did you know the Thrivent Food Distribution truck will be in Colfax providing free food to people in need on February 5th? Were you aware the Census Bureau is hiring many temporary workers for February and March or that WSU will begin paying people to participate in a sleep study this spring?

All of this information and more can be found on the Colfax Library bulletin board, demonstrating just how important even the simplest of library services can be.

In Colfax, library staff have seen an increase in people using the free paperback rack, complimentary coffee, public reading areas, wireless Internet access, restrooms, drinking fountain, phone and phone books. Like the bulletin board, these are important services that are often ignored in statistical reporting of library usage.

In tough economic times, many Americans turn to their public libraries for services and support. And that holds true in Whitman County, where use of the library is up by as much as 50% in some areas.

One key service offered by libraries is free access to computers and the Internet. A recent study from the American Library Association website says that 44% of top retailers no longer accept applications in person. Today, more and more employers require that all applications be filed online making the library's free Internet access vital for those who cant afford it.

Free computer and Internet access also allows jobseekers to produce resumes and search for work online. At Whitman County Library, staff are very familiar with the Worksource website and can assist residents with their basic searches and questions.

The library also has additional job related resources. Instructional books and DVDs can assist patrons with resume writing, interview techniques, civil service or other types of testing, educational and career guides.

Besides assisting job seekers, the library helps people save money too. Funded by local taxes, libraries provide free movies, music, books and cultural programs to residents of all ages. Over the past year, Whitman County Library saw a sizeable increase in overall usage but the biggest gains came in the lending of movies, music CDs, magazines and paperbacks. This tells me that people are saving money by borrowing many of the items they used to purchase or rent.

In Whitman County, attendance at adult programs grew by 49% from 2007 to 2008, indicating that people are looking for free ways to entertain and educate themselves. Library events and programs are filling that niche.

 

 

For more information, contact:

Kristie Kirkpatrick at 509-397-4366 or see our website.