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Library tech programs draw repeat users; staff outline drone, VR and makerspace offerings
Summary
Digital Information Services Librarian Tom Patterson told the Churchill County Library Board of Trustees that makerspace programs — including drones, VR and an upcoming 3D-printer exhibition — are drawing repeat patrons and expanding outreach to schools and the community.
Tom Patterson, Digital Information Services Librarian for the Churchill County Library, told the Churchill County Library Board of Trustees that the library’s technology programs are drawing repeat users and expanding outreach.
Patterson said the position focuses on the library’s computer systems and technology infrastructure. “Basically it’s an IT position … I manage all of the computers that are in the library, both staff and public,” Patterson said.
The programs Patterson described include regular makerspace demonstrations (virtual reality and drones), a 3D-printer exhibition scheduled for next week, and a middle-school internship tied to library staff. Patterson said patrons can reserve drones through the library’s online reservation tool; staff will provide setup help and a supervised option for minors. He described an option to use a visual programming tool called DroneBlocks that lets users program a flight path with a drag-and-drop interface designed for learners.
“ We’re getting a lot of involvement. I’ve seen a lot of repeat patrons for those. So, yeah, it’s going really well,” Patterson said when asked about participation.
Library trustees and patrons praised the programs during the meeting. Trustee Sarah Kaylor said she and her son had attended multiple sessions and found them “out of this world,” calling the offerings empowering for young people.
Patterson also described other technology work behind the scenes: he rebuilt the library website to give staff more control, integrated an online reservation system that lets patrons book the annex, study rooms and certain equipment, set up automation to improve staff efficiency, and serves as the liaison to county IT and the Nevada Library Cooperative for catalog and systems issues. He said he will offer weekly tech support at the Life Center beginning in February and that Jay (another staff member) and he will supervise the middle-school intern.
Board members asked questions about safety and staffing; Patterson said he will be on hand to help patrons use equipment but that supervised or self-directed options are available depending on age and need. Trustees responded with thanks and encouragement for continued outreach and school partnerships.
The discussion occurred during the board’s regular meeting; no formal action or policy changes were taken on the tech programs at that session.
