P.S. NIAGARA
Niagara Falls Public Library: Serving the Community Beyond Books By Jill Tham Traditionally, libraries are filled with books and quiet spaces perfect for reading and studying. The Niagara Falls Public Library (NFPL) provides the community with an experience that goes beyond books. “It doesn’t matter if you like reading a lot or a little or you don’t like reading at all, we will find you something else that you are interested in,” says Kaley Stewart, Communications Associate/Community Engagement for the library. “The library has more than just books! We have a huge collection of non-bookish items available for customers to borrow at no cost,” says Stewart. “You can have up to 60 items on your card for a few weeks and usually renew them if someone is not waiting for it,” says Stewart. In addition to books, the library lends out musical instruments, picnic games, light therapy lamps, outdoor equipment and Parks passes, board games, movies, and video game consoles (Nintendo Switch and Switch Lite). Ukulele lessons are also offered. Borrowing items and utilizing the services has never been easier. “You don’t have to have a library card to attend some of our programs,” says Stewart who finds a balanced approach to programming works best for the community. “Some programs require registration, and some are drop-in.” One of the new changes in the library is the elimination of late fees. “Fines were a huge barrier. We do want our books back, but we don’t want anyone to feel ashamed,” says Stewart. The library conducted a pilot program where a reminder call or email was sent to the patron after the item was overdue. “We found that after the first reminder most items came back,” says Stewart. The library’s fall programming is off and running. “Our next block session has something for everyone. It begins in October and registration opens in mid September,” says Stewart. The always popular baby time and family story time programs are still on the agenda along with several programs geared for specific ages and literacy abilities. “Our DIY homemaking program, which just finished making soap, and ‘Crafternoons’ one of our drop-in adult programs are fun social experiences,” says Stewart. Photos courtesy of The Niagara Falls Public Library.
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