Bringing the Library to your Doorstep Exciting Times at the St. Thomas Library! On April 24th, the new St. Thomas Public Library’s Outreach Van had its official ribbon cutting. The van is a mobile library service designed to bring the library experience directly to the community. Stocked with books and activities, it provides a flexible and engaging library experience wherever it goes. Dana Vanzanten, Manager of Programming and Community Development, explains that the van is a versatile resource, capable of offering various services depending on its location. Whether at a park, school, community partner site, or local neighbourhood, people can sign up for library cards, participate in activities, check out books, and learn about library programs and services. The specific offerings are tailored to the audience at each stop, ensuring a relevant and engaging experience. The Outreach Van concept was initiated in 2022, and it has been a collaborative effort since then. “We have a lot of people to thank for the van,” says Dana, “Especially the Friends of the Library whose generous donations over the years funded the base cost of the van; our library board for their ongoing support, and staff at the City of St. Thomas, who have supported us every step of the way with cost projections, procurement processes, outfitting the van with everything it needs, and helping us get ourselves set up for safety and success with it!” As St. Thomas continues to grow, the Outreach Van addresses a critical need for accessible library services. The library’s single location on Curtis Street can be a barrier for some residents due to transportation issues, lack of awareness, or apprehension about visiting a new place. The van breaks down these barriers by bringing the library directly to people,
Our First Job is Customer Satisfaction ST. THOMAS’ FAVOURITE AUTO GLASS REPAIR! THANK YOU FOR VOTING US Windshield Replacement & Repair • Tinting Vehicle Accessories allowing the library to reach new patrons and reconnect with familiar faces in the community. The van has a busy schedule, with regular Thursday afternoon visits to housing communities in partnership with St. Thomas- Elgin Social Services, monthly appearances at the Horton Market, and numerous school visits in June. During the summer, it will be present at parks with EarlyON and at community events like the Children’s Festival and Railway City Music and Arts. Dana finds the Outreach Van particularly exciting because it enables the library to connect with people who might not otherwise visit. She enjoys seeing people’s surprise and excitement when they learn about the free materials, programs, and services available with a library card, including discounts through the STPL Plus Perks program. For those interested in having the Outreach Van at their event, Dana advises reaching out via the online form at the St. Thomas Public Library’s website (www.stthomaspubliclibrary.ca/outreach). Alter- natively, you can call the library at 519-631-6050 for assistance.
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Page 18 Hometown St. Thomas • June 2024
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