Thursday, Sept. 24—WOODSTOCK—The Norman Williams Public Library has embarked on an exciting course of modernization. In May 2015, 50 community members gathered with library staff and trustees to plot the course for its transformation into a 21st-century library. The first evidence of this effort can be seen in the library’s new Innovation Lab.
To remain the intellectual catalyst of modern life, libraries must become inextricably bound to the digital revolution. It is no longer enough to stock stacks of books; it is not even enough to provide access to e-books and computers linking patrons to the Internet. Today’s libraries are platforms from which patrons can access the increasing volume of digital material in the world, can use technology for their personal projects, and can find the human support needed to leverage these resources. In return, local libraries are realizing the unique importance of their archives and, through an institutional effort to digitize these materials, are contributing to the universal collection of knowledge.
The Norman Williams Public Library has taken its first step toward becoming such a platform. Since August, the front room of the library has begun its transformation to an space where individuals can meet to collaborate on their business interests; use the latest technology to scan and preserve photos, documents and videos; learn how to download and read e-books; learn how to use a new phone or other personal device; and much more.
To learn more about how the Innovation Lab can enhance your experience of the Norman Williams Public Library, join in the first of the Next New Thing series of talks, which will focus on a discussion of how the lab is ideal for entrepreneurs. The next session, Thursday, Sept. 24 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. will feature Travis Hellstrom and several of Woodstock’s great entrepreneurs. Help them plan the Innovation Lab at the Norman Williams Public Library.
Norman Williams Public Library is located at 10 the Green in Woodstock. For more info, visit www.normanwilliams.org or call 802-457-2295.
