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An Editorial Opinion of The Demopolis Times

 Libraries are an important part of our communities. They provide resources for reading, research, and provide everyone with access to information and education. Libraries are also a place where people can stay for as long as they need without being expected to purchase something.

The Demopolis Public Library does its best to be a positive and accessible resource for Demopolis and is always planning something to draw in patrons. They host a summer reading program with exciting activities to interest children and adults alike. They host book club meetings for adults and sometimes host authors for book signings. It is a great place to spend some quiet time away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The library’s latest effort involves bringing back “Tech Tuesdays” where patrons can get one-on-one help with learning important computer skills. Tech Tuesdays were once common at the library before the pandemic broke out. They were rather popular as many people found them useful. And as of Sept. 19, the weekly event is back in place.

Tech Tuesdays will allow those who struggle with computers to learn a new skill at their own pace in a quiet environment. Patrons can decide what skill they need to develop and then spend thirty minutes to an hour navigating a computer with a library employee.

But perhaps the most important thing Tech Tuesdays will do is teach people how to stay safe on the internet. There are many pitfalls on the web that can either scam people out of their money or infect devices with damaging viruses that can render them useless. Library Director Kathy Owings stressed the importance of being cautious online and not believing everything you see.

Libraries are a staple in our everyday lives and everyone should take advantage of an institution that was built to foster and improve their community.