Hello, my name is Rachel E. Kim, and I am an intern writing on behalf of the Fairfax Library Foundation. Welcome to “What’s New in Our Libraries?,” a blog about innovations in Fairfax County Public Libraries.
Libraries in the Fairfax County, Virginia area are adapting and transforming in response to the rapid technological evolution of today’s generation. Some libraries, such as Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library in Pimmit Hills, Pohick Regional Library in Burke, and Sherwood Regional Library in Hybla Valley, are glowing examples of this adaptation.
In the Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library, a newly renovated branch, a collection of attractions awaits. The quiet and group study rooms, the WiFi bar which caters to personal device use, and natural lighting diffused by the sails in the ceilings create the perfect studying environment for all ages. Tired of working and need a quick break? Head on over to the Teen Gaming Center and play a round or two on the PS4 or XBOX on the double-sided flat screen television. Need help finding a book? Ask a librarian at the information desk or take advantage of a wall-mounted electronic guidance tablet where you can search the library catalog. Bored and want something to read? Check out the renovated book collection where you can always find a book that satisfies your preferences. If you are a parent and you are looking for a kid-friendly space for your children, then the expanded Children’s Area is the perfect spot! It has lower shelves for easy access for children and an Early Literacy Gaming Station as well. If you are in need of a place to gather your group for a meeting, then you will even be able to reserve a meeting room that has up-to-date software that will fulfill your technological needs.
The same goes for the Pohick Regional Library, home to Fairfax County Public Library’s first Video Gaming Center and second 3D printer station, with Sherwood Regional Library having the first. This branch embodies what modern libraries are beginning to look like. It has redesigned interior spaces with more natural lighting and an expanded teens’ and children’s sections to encourage the younger generation to spend more time in the library. Pohick also has wall-mounted electronic tablets, improved wireless system, 17 internet stations, additional computers in the teens’ section, a Children’s Area with computers exclusively for early literacy games, added quiet study spaces and meeting rooms. Pohick Regional Library provides a variety of entertainment resources for visitors of all ages.
These renovations were put into action to cater to a variety of tastes, so make sure to check out your local library today for any new attractions! Your local library awaits you!