Free Internet is giving the local libraries with more offline traffic.
Usage of the Thunder Bay Public Library has steadily increased by about three per cent each year for the past four years. Besides offering access to books, the library also offers free Wi-Fi, computer usage and classes.
Chief librarian John Pateman said accessing the Wi-Fi and computers are one of the main reasons for the increase in usage.
He said they’ve adopted a community centre approach where people can come in to use the free services.
“We’ve done a lot more promotion of marketing and have a wider range of services,” he said.
“People are coming in for a whole range of different things. They will walk out the door with a book, but while they’re in the library they may check out what’s on the Internet and do a bunch of other stuff. We’re a multi-use service.”
Judy Grant often comes to the Mary JL Black library to look for books on historical fiction. She’s also attending classes to learn how to use her smartphone and e-reader.
“I guess (the library) isn’t just about books anymore,” she said. “I love my books. I have a Kobo reader, but I prefer books.”
Lois Galvin visited the Mary JL Black for the first time Wednesday. She had been to the old location, but wanted to look at the new additions since she was in the area. Like Grant, Galvin also started to learn how to use new technologies.
Even with the new technologies available, she said she still likes reading from a book.
“I still read before I go to bed at night,” she said. “I like reading. I got my daughter to teach me how to put CDs onto my iPod.”
She said it’s important to keep libraries innovative in order to attract the youth.
