How libraries are changing

By: Hayden Hewitt

Staff Writer

Modern times have given a rise to an evolution of libraries leading to less book use and more technological use. The pandemic led to an even larger increase in the use of technology in libraries.

“People come to study and use the computers. The physical book collection is still used but we are concentrating on buying more materials in an online format,” Dean of University Libraries at Tarleton, Dr. Katherine Quinnelle said. 

With the change in use for the library there has also been a change in demographic. 

“More adults come for the computers, I would say about half of the population that visits the library are kids, and they usually come for books,” Anna Tilkington said. She has worked at the Stephenville Public Library for a year.

Quinnelle said fewer community members have visited the campus library than in previous years. In an effort to bring in more community members, they are partnering with the Stephenville public library to offer the Multipurpose Room as a meeting space for organizations.

Even though there have been changes, it seems as if each libraries’ community is supportive and backing them.

Adina Dunn, who has been the director of the Dublin Public Library since 2013, said the pandemic caused changes. More people were wanting to access online resources or connect to the internet. 

“I really feel like the community appreciates what we do, we get lots of support through donations and grant money from the city,” Dunn said. 

One way to support your local library is by attending their events. The Stephenville Public Library has a scholastic teen book club for the teens in the community. They also host events in the summer for children, and more.

The Dublin Public Library hosts several events including, children’s crafting events in the summer, the genealogy society, and more. 

The Dick Smith Library on campus hosts many events including Juneteenth events, Student Success Fair, Banned Books Week Seminars and more. To get more information on events, just call your local library and ask for the listings, or visit the websites below.

Stephenville Public Library: https://www.stephenvilletx.gov/parks-leisure/page/library

Dublin Public Library: https://www.dublinlibrary.org/

Dick Smith Tarleton Campus Library: https://www.tarleton.edu/library/index.html

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