Digital television

We don't want to encourage you to watch too much television and not read books and visit your library, but we are in the business of providing information. So in that spirit, this is something your need to know.

Here's a link to DTVAnanswers.com, a website providing information on the coming transition to digital television:

"DTVAnswers.com is the official Web site of the National Association of Broadcasters' digital television (DTV) transition campaign. Launched in January 2007, the DTV campaign’s mission is to ensure that no consumer is left unprepared, due to lack of information, for the February 17, 2009 federally mandated transition from analog to digital broadcasting for all full-power television stations."

E-Government

What is it?

It's a word libraries and others use to describe how the public might interact with government, whether local, state, or the federal government.

Some interaction can only be done online. Some things can be done both online or in person, which ever is more convenient. For instance, in some counties you can renew your automobile registration online.

We have a link to some Florida government resources and Federal government resources that may be of use to you.

There are many more. Library staff will be happy to assist you in finding them.

Children's programs at the library.

Read me a story!

Children often ask that of parents and caregivers. And that's exactly what libraries do.

Libraries are now starting their spring schedule of programs for children. You can check the schedule here.

Storytimes are a good way to share books and reading with children. The libraries have thousands of books especially for children who cannot read on their own. Reading together is a time to snuggle with your child and start them on the road to independent reading.

Library staff will be happy to assist you in finding age appropriate books for your children.

Voting

Here's a link for information about voting in Florida:

VoteSmartFlorida "a non-partisan website dedicated to providing Florida voters unbiased, factual information on proposed constitutional amendments and voter resources, including:
Early Voting Locations
Sample Ballot
1-Page Overview of Amendment #1
2008 Voter Guide to the Property Tax Amendment
A List of Local Property Appraisers"

Computer classes

Do you or someone you know need help in learning to use your computer? Or do you want to be able to use the library computers better? We can help.

Each year Union Co. Public Library and New River Public Library Cooperative offer a series of basic computer classes. Classes will start on Tuesday, January 29. We're offering classes on Tuesday morning and evening.

Each class lasts about two hours and is taught by one of our staff. Instructors are experienced computer users and teachers. Past classes have been positively evaluated by students taking the class.

Classes are for students 14 years and older and are open to residents of Baker, Bradford and Union Counties. We offer Basic Computer, Basic Internet, Basic Email, and Basic Word. There will be one class of Basic Excel.

You can look at the full schedule here.

Classes are small, usually only one student to a computer. There is time for hands-on practice. There is no charge for classes. Several years ago we were able to purchase the equipment we use with a federal grant.

Class size is limited so call to reserve your space. 386-496-3432.

Arbor Day in Florida

I remember my fourth grade teacher telling the class about Arbor Day. That was in the north so Arbor Day is later in the year there. But in Florida, Arbor Day is January 18 this year, the third Friday in January.

It's time to plant a tree. Arbor Day is a day that celebrates trees and their care. The Arbor Day Foundation says it "inspires people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees."

So, it's time to plant a tree to replace those lost in the fires last year, or to help mitigate the effects of global warming. Trees provide shade and color; they are just beautiful to look at.

The libraries have many books on gardening and trees. Look in the nonfiction section 635.9 for books on gardening, and in the 582 section for books on trees. Library staff will be happy to help you.

Fix your car

Calling all mechanics...or anyone who wants to fix their vehicle...the libraries have subscribed to an online information site that you can access from the library or from your home computer...Chilton Automotive.

Those familiar with the large volumes that contain diagrams and instructions for fixing cars and trucks will be happy to see this information easily available online.

The site is easy to use...enter the year, make and model of your vehicle and you'll get a list of items on car maintenance, technical bulletins, and repair information. Directions are easy to use and diagrams are included. You can print out the pertinent information to take with you to your vehicle.

Chilton joins other online information sites such as PriceIt (for antinques and collectibles) and Learning Express (online test tutors and courses), available in the library or from your home computer with your library card.