With your help, DeKalb County Public Library (DCPL) offers fun and engaging programs for patrons of all ages. Participants and staff love to share how Foundation-funded programs make an impact.
LEGO CLUBS
Children express their imagination and creativity during the LEGO Clubs offered at many DCPL branches. In addition to being fun, playing with LEGO develops fine motor skills and spatial awareness. When children build in a group, they improve their social skills, such as sharing. At the Wesley Chapel-William C. Brown Library, LEGO Club participants vote on which creations to display after each meet up. “The voting process helps the participants think more about what they’re building,” said Shakira, youth services librarian. “It’s also fun to see them talking about their build to others to drum up votes.”
SEWING PROGRAMS
Sewing builds creativity, develops motor skills, and engages your brain! Many DCPL librarians teach sewing classes, and they tailor their programs to match the skills of each sewer. Young children learn hand sewing and make ornaments during the holiday season. Middle school and high school students use sewing machines and create stuffed animals and zipper pouches. Adults and seniors make bunting, decorative pillow covers, and quilts. Sewing also generates a sense of accomplishment and pride. “I am a lifelong learner,” said Joan, a regular attendee. “I learned how to sew a pillow during one program. It made me so happy that I made one for every member of my family.”
TAKE THE INTERNET HOME WITH YOU INITIATIVE
The DeKalb Library Foundation funds close to 300 hotspot devices available for check out across DeKalb County Public Library’s 23 library locations. More than 2,100 patrons benefitted from this service over the past year. In a recent survey, more than 75% of responding hotspot users shared they have limited to no internet access in their homes. Patrons reported the hotspot program is invaluable to them. Many use the devices so their children can stay connected to school resources. Others use them to search for and maintain employment, attend virtual healthcare appointments, and stay connected to friends and family. Sarah explained,“I used to have to come to the library every day to read my emails. Now I’m able to check out a hotspot and a chrome book, so I do all this at home.” Tammy shared,“I know people think everyone has the internet but there are some of us who don’t. It is really helpful for us.”