Maitland City Talk

Reading is still the most important service libraries provide, according to Americans surveyed for the latest Pew Report on libraries. Maitland Public Library provides many programs that emphasize access to reading materials.

The youth and adult summer reading programs are in full swing, with books being not the only method to bring readers to the Library. Bats, owls, scientific cooking and forensic anthropology programs with expert speakers represent different ways to attract readers to the Library this summer, with Mastodons, Florida Ice Age mammals, manatees, and FamiLab MakerSpace. All information is available at maitlandpl.org for times and dates of these programs.

E-gaming for Youth is a popular way to attract young users to the library every Friday afternoon at 1 p.m. Many popular games have companion novels and websites that encourage players to become more engaged in reading.

Electronic resources also engage readers in a different format. The Maitland Public Library offers Zinio as a source of electronic magazines that can be read on any computer, tablet or smartphone. E-books and downloadable audio books are also available for these devices, in an easy to use format, for individuals who own a tablet, computer or e-reader. Connect to the Library’s webpage and read from any internet-enabled device.

For the 69 percent of people who read printed books, check out your favorite authors both old and new or shop at the Friends of the Library bookstore. Enjoy a cool, inviting environment to explore all aspects of reading at the heart of the community, the Maitland Public Library.

— Ellen Schellhause, director of Maitland Public Library