Hello again,

Just sitting here @ work and surfing around the net. There's a general perception that working @ a library is either say "shhhh!" way too much or putting books back on shelves for hours on end. Those are just small bits of what goes on in libraries in the 21st century. A few examples of what goes on are:

1) Computer classes, computer classes, and more computer classes. I'm one of five dedicated teachers here @ the library that teach the very basic computer skills ("This is a mouse...no, it won't bite..."), as well as basic intro to the Internet, and a basic into to e-mail. The professional Librarians also do special topics, such as "How to do your taxes online" & "Ebay-ing for the non-Internet Savvy".

2) Cultural programs. I've seen my library host numerous language classes, introductions to cultures as diverse as Russian & Indian (the subcontinent, not the Native-American), as well as providing multi-lingual library support.

3) Community Outreach. The library provides free webhosting to start-ups & community organiztions through http://www.skokienet.org/ & http://www.northstarnet.org/. We also have supportfor persons with disablilties.

And that's just the tip of the iceburg.

-Josh