Check It Out: Get your nose in a laptop
Look around you. How many people did you see on their phones, laptops and computers with their faces fixed on a screen? Our minds and world are shaped by what goes on in the palm of our hand. It wasn’t like this as early as a few years ago, was it?
Before, you might see someone’s face buried in a book or newspaper. We didn’t think much of it then. I wonder — if technology evolves too fast, will it reshape who we are at the same rate? Is technology taking over, or is it simply feeding our need for news, stories and information?
Tech helps. It enhances and satisfies our lust for knowledge and entertainment. I welcome technology, and so does your library.
Libraries across the country are offering new, exciting ways to enjoy information. What kind of tech is there at the Newport Beach Public Library?
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eBranch
One of the latest additions to our website is our eBranch, open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The blurb on our eBranch page says it all: In addition to the Central Library and three branch library locations, Newport Beach Public Library offers cardholders access to a variety of online and downloadable resources that can be accessed by computer or mobile devices. Our convenient eBranch is open all day, every day, so enjoy eBooks, audiobooks, downloadable videos, online classes, homework help and a broad range of easy-to-access services online 24/7.
Enjoy books on your phone, tablet or computer. Research information from one of our many databases whether you’re a student, professional or casual learner. If you’re thirsty and lost in the desert, NBPL is your oasis of information.
Technology makes our library accessible anytime from anywhere. All it takes is a library card to unlock information from the comfort of your home, office or the road. For the eBranch, go to https://www.newportbeachlibrary.org/ebranch.
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Tuesdays@2
The eBranch is your first stop for eBooks. If you need training on our eBook services, Axis 360 and Overdrive, check our Tuesdays@2 schedule. We offer classes in our Media Lab on topics such as eBooks, YouTube and our databases. There’s a full schedule of training sessions at newportbeachlibrary.org/services/media/tues2.
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Media Lab
Have you been to the Media Lab? If there’s a place where tech in the library is a focus, it’s our Media Lab that boasts multiple workstations with high-end digital design, photo and video editing, analog-to-digital conversion and recording software. You can also use one of our Lynda.com computers to watch in-depth courses online and sharpen or learn new skills.
The diversity of projects that you can create in the lab is vast. Drop in or make a reservation at newportbeachlibrary.org/services/media.
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iPads
In addition to computers and laptops, NBPL allows customers to borrow an iPad, in-house, for 2 hours. You can extend that 2 hours as long as there are iPads available.
We loaded each iPad with our eBook services, Axis 360 and Overdrive. Zinio, our free eMagazine service, is also on each iPad. Check out an iPad, and within minutes, you are reading “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” or listening to “Civil Disobedience.” I recommend bringing a pair of headphones if you check out an iPad. Stop by the Reference Desk on the second floor to borrow one.
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Classic
The day will come when you might want to enjoy a classic day at the library. Enjoy a book in our beautiful, sun-lit reading areas. Browse a collection or section you’ve never studied but were always curious about. Attend a program or lecture.
Expand the horizon of information and knowledge with or without technology. So go ahead — bury your face in a screen or book at NBPL. The library is here to quench your thirst for knowledge.
CHECK IT OUT is written by the staff of the Newport Beach Public Library. All titles may be reserved from home or office computers by accessing the catalog at https://www.newportbeachlibrary.org. For more information on the Central Library or any of the branches, please contact the Newport Beach Public Library at (949) 717-3800, option 2.