By Kathryn Johnson

I am so happy to return to the Allied Gardens/Benjamin Library, a branch of the San Diego Public Library. When I previously managed the branch, I enjoyed working with this wonderful community and am eager and excited to reacquaint myself with it. In the almost two years since I have been away, it seems quite a bit has changed. The little tots I once hosted in story times are now reading on their own, the middle school students who attended the weekly teen program are now in high school and worrying about college, but the Albertsons has disappeared!

As you may have noticed, several things have changed recently for the San Diego Public Library system, as well. We have increased our hours, our branch will be having some work done, and we are making a concerted effort to put together meaningful programming and services in response to patron needs. Some examples of such can be seen at the North Park Library where patrons can check out toys, or at the Central library where they will host a series of fix-it clinics (a program for patrons to get help from experts in fixing everything from clothes to toasters), and at the Tierrasanta library where they host an adult coloring program. In my opinion, libraries are becoming more dynamic, responsive to community needs and outright fun!

Contrary to this, I do occasionally hear from people who are surprised that libraries still exist. Many times people think that because of electronic books and easy access to the Internet, there is no longer a need for libraries. To these people I would like to point out that ebooks and Internet are just a small portion of what we offer. Even some of our most diehard patrons might be surprised to learn that, with your library card, you can: learn beginning Urdu or 29 other languages; get help with preparing for tests such as the SAT, GED and ASVAB; build a resume; get online homework help from a tutor; read New York Times articles from 1851-2010 or take an online course in using humor to increase your popularity.

As I get out into the community over these next few weeks, I ask that you feel free to send along any suggestions or ideas you may have. I welcome everyone’s input so that we can make your library what you would like it to be. (Oh, I did hear a lot of folks asking for the return of Baby Story Time so keep an eye out for our April calendar.)

That being said, please note that we will be closing temporarily to have a new ADA compliant and ergonomic circulation desk installed as well as some new flooring. We will be closed on March 1 and reopen April 11. Thank you for your patience and understanding during our transition and we look forward to seeing you at your new and improved library.

—Kathryn Johnson is managing librarian at the Allied Gardens/Benjamin Library. Reach her at [email protected].