DESMOND-FISH LIBRARY
INNOVATION & LEARNING CENTER
AN OPPORTUNITY FOR COMMUNITY CONNECTION
At the Desmond-Fish Library, we have experienced tremendous demand from patrons of all ages for computer and technology resources. Since 2013, we have hosted Project Code Spring, a bi-weekly program designed to introduce children to coding, technology skills and other innovative work, and directed by Cybrarian Pam McCluskey. Using donated computers and equipment in a corner of the multipurpose room, the after-school program has been extremely popular. No area schools offer opportunities to learn and apply computer science like the Desmond Fish Library does. It is one of a very few emerging “maker spaces” - collaborative workspaces that offer tools of many descriptions.
Older library patrons are also eager for computer assistance of many varieties, and our librarians offer one-to-one computer help for adults, teach computer classes, and offer workshops on essential computer skills for the job market. The Desmond-Fish Library has a strong reputation as the place to go for technology resources.
OUR CHALLENGE
Despite our track record of success in offering outstanding computer training and services, our facilities are overstretched by growing demand and we lack the space in our current configuration to simply add more computers. The Library’s current computer resources are at maximum capacity.
• Our popular after-school Project Code Spring program has limited ability to accept new participants because of a lack of computers that can run current software.
• The Project Code Spring space is a motley collection of donated computers and monitors of various ages and models crammed ad hoc into a corner of our downstairs multi-purpose space. They must be stored away when a performance or art exhibit is scheduled.
OUR SOLUTION
The Desmond-Fish Library will create a permanent new Innovation and Learning Center with up-to-date computer stations and technology resources to support creative and collaborative projects. The new Center will allow the Library to expand our digital literacy services to more members of the community and offer learning opportunities year-round in a dedicated space.