January 2015 Newsletter

It’s (almost) a New Year, so it’s time to focus our energies on new projects and programs at the library!

The Library staff and Board are actively exploring the creation of a digital media lab, or MakerSpace, at the library. A MakerSpace is a collaborative learning environment where people of all ages can come together to share materials, be exposed to new technologies and learn new skills. It can be an intergenerational “playground” and learning lab, where users can be exposed to technologies such as 3D printing, audio-visual editing software, small scale electronics, and handicrafts.   MakerSpace offerings can be as unique as the community they serve.  So, why the need?   Daily, we get questions on computer and technology availability, questions ranging from “do you have a certain piece of equipment?”, to “how do I use this software?”.  As the Library’s traditional role is to provide information and resources to our users; a natural extension of that role is the promotion of digital literacy training and skills.

 As we move forward with plans we would love your input on what kind of resources you would like to see in such a space. Please fill out this brief survey and let us know your thoughts!

We are also trying to broaden our reach and connect with our community in the world of social networking. This month we have added accounts on twitter and instagram, and pinterest will be live soon.  These are in addition to our well established Friends of the Library facebook page.  However you like to keep informed on what’s going on at the library and in the community, we have the answer.  So, please, take a minute to friend, follow, and connect with us!  The links to all these accounts are:

	facebook.com/friendsofmilfordlibrary
	@milfordpublib
	@milfordpubliclibrary

 Even with new technologies, face to face discussion and dialog can’t be beat.  Beginning in January, join us every Wednesday at 12:15, for our new lunchtime series, TED Talks, We Talk.  TED stands for Technology, Entertainment and Design, and began as a conference where thinkers, writers, scientists, social commentators, celebrities, and more took the stage to share their thoughts, ideas and beliefs with an audience. TED now also takes the form of brief video talks – usually 15-20 minutes in length, where a wide range of people share fascinating, enlightening and entertaining ideas on a myriad of topics.  The talks are meant to be thought provoking and begin a conversation.  Each week we will view a talk and attendees can join or listen to discussion on what we’ve heard.   Please bring your lunch; coffee and tea will be provided.    

As always, if there is something you would like to see at your library, please let us know.   You can email me, cangeli@ci.milford.ct.us, or leave your comments in the suggestion boxes located within the library.

See you in the Library!

Chris Angeli
Library Director