Bold New Services
The Role Of A Library In A Pandemic: Virtual Programming, Curbside Service, Improved Technology And Yes, Books
By Tara Bannon Williamson
Park Hill Branch Librarian
What is a library? A collection of books? A fancy building? Or is it more than all of that?
The role of the modern library has never stopped evolving. One hundred years ago, while the library claimed to be for everyone, it really wasn’t. Issues of class, economy and gender all played into whether or not you were able to utilize library services unhindered.
While it has torn at our tender hearts to have our spaces closed to you since last March, we are thinking of the safety of all and will reopen once it is safe to do so. In the meantime, we have channeled our yearning for connection and positive impact into bold new services.
In the last year, the library has taken innovative leaps into virtual programming, curbside service, outdoor technology, and expanding outreach services. In my 20 years of service, I have never seen the library spring into action with such determination and verve. If you haven’t tried out our new curbside bundle service, denverlibrary.org/curbside-bundle, give it a whirl!
We are still here to help you in all the ways we have before — connecting you to all the resources we have to offer to meet the varying challenges and opportunities that exist for you at school, work and in your personal life. We’ve extended our home delivery services to reach more customers. If you have questions about home delivery, contact Cindy Schneider at 720-865-1351 or by email at homedelivery@denverlibrary.org
Whether you need entertainment through movies, music or recreational reading, or need access to common legal forms, we’re finding ways to meet the needs of the community. In 2021, you will see us continue to prioritize the needs of underserved communities and provide you with access to our collections, technology and expertise.
To me, the library operates in the dreamy space between where you are and where you want to be. Whether you are looking for resources on retirement, potty training, or growing your own vegetables, we want to help you get what you need to achieve your goals.
In a pandemic, the process is admittedly a little different, but the goal is the same. At the end of the day, the role of a library in a pandemic is the same as it ever was: We are here for you.
Virtual Events
Food Lover’s Book Club: In Bibi’s Kitchen | Wednesday, Jan. 6, 6 p.m.
It’s Food Lover’s Book Club time! Start the year off with Amanda Faison and a discussion of In Bibi’s Kitchen: The Recipes and Stories of Grandmothers from the Eight African Countries that Touch the Indian Ocean by Hawa Hassan with Julia Turshen. Special guest to be announced.
denverlibrary.org/event/food-lovers-book-club-bibis-kitchen
Navigating Grief and Loss: Collective Loss And Grief During COVID | Wednesday, Jan. 8, 3 p.m.
As individuals, we have all lost something or someone during the COVID-19 crisis. As a community, we have lost one way of life and are adjusting to another. Let’s come together to recognize our losses and support each other as we grieve and mourn. Together, we will move through our sorrow in order to live beyond it. We do not have to grieve alone.
denverlibrary.org/event/navigating-grief-and-loss-session-four-moving-through-collective-loss-during-covid
No Strings Attached Book Chat | Saturday, Jan. 9, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Read whatever you want and attend whenever you can. Join us virtually to share a recent read, an old favorite, or anything in between.
denverlibrary.org/event/no-strings-attached-book-chat-57
Navigating Grief and Loss: Sex After Grief | Friday, Jan. 22, 3 p.m.
A session on how to navigate your sexuality after losing your beloved.
denverlibrary.org/event/navigating-grief-and-loss-session-six-sex-after-grief-navigating-your-sexuality-after-losing
Virtual Kindness Club | Wednesday, Jan. 27, 4 p.m.
Who couldn’t use more kindness in their life? Each session we will embark on a kindness adventure together! Looking for ways to feel connected during COVID? We’ll focus on ways to be kind on mindfulness and meditation. All ages welcome!
denverlibrary.org/event/virtual-kindness-club-2
One Step at a Time: Lessons for Living with Author Vicki Rottman | Wednesday, Jan. 27, 5 p.m.
Local author Vicki Rottman will read from her new book One Step at a Time: Lessons for Living and tell how it came to be. The book chronicles the sculptures she made over a period of nine years, as well as the musings which led her to wholeness. Rottman hopes her story will encourage listeners to reflect on their own lives and join in discussion.
denverlibrary.org/event/one-step-time-lessons-living-author-vicki-rottman