2.6 Enabling Access to Technology Libraries are currently operating in a period of rapid technology innovation, enabling them to meet the needs of their customers in new and exciting ways such as through use of wireless devices that have made Wi-Fi and independent work/study stations more vital. While computer commons are still at the heart of most libraries, Wi-Fi technology and the proliferation of personal laptops are dispersing computer use to every corner of the library. Laptop lounges, seating bars, and cafés provide unique amenities that complement reading, relaxing, and studying through the digital medium. Brampton Library provides over 400 computer workstations and Chromebooks for in-branch use which collectively facilitated more than 330,000 computer sessions in 2019 (Figure 7). Makerspaces & Digital Innovation Hubs Brampton Library is playing a part in Brampton’s move towards becoming an increasingly “smart city” in the technological sense while and nurturing innovation, with a recent example of the latter being the investments in Makerspaces at the Four Corners, Chinguacousy and Springdale branches. A Makerspace or Digital Innovation Hub is an important program element found in any new library. Brampton Library’s MakerSpace Brampton initiative is a joint venture with the City of Brampton Economic Development Office and Sheridan College’s Faculty of Applied Science and Technology. Equipment includes 3D printers, vinyl cutters, electronic cutting machines, music-making equipment, and more; Makerspace Brampton programs include interactive learning in 3D printing and modelling, coding, web design, robotics, and other STEAM and maker topics for all ages while the Library also hosts special events and meetups such as Tech Talks and Repair Cafés. In addition, equipment commonly found in other makerspaces includes 3D scanners, laser cutters, sewing machines, power tools, electronics tools, and so on. Makerspaces may be subdivided or augmented by more defined rooms for music and voice recording, photo and video studios, computer stations and collaboration areas for coding. Digital Literacy & Bridging the Digital Divide Digital literacy is quickly expanding and libraries play a key role in the education process. New technologies are leading to the emergence of new public experiences, allowing libraries to reinforce their value to their community, including to younger generations. Through the provision of computer commons, makerspaces, program rooms and other areas, the public library has become a place for residents of all ages and backgrounds to learn about the types of technology prevalent in the global arena along with how to use technology for the betterment of their daily lives. Libraries are also witnessing challenges relating to what is known as the “digital divide” where there are segments of the population that cannot afford and/or have the ability to navigate technology. Brampton Library is a critical community resource that bridges the digital divide by enabling free access to the internet, provision of computers and laptops for library cardholders to use, delivering programs and technical assistance to help residents navigate technology, and providing affordable printing, scanning and access to makerspace equipment.
Library Facilities Master Plan Monteith Brown Planning Consultants Ltd. + Perkins & Will
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