GULF SHORES, Ala. — Author Kurt Vonnegut said, "So the America I loved still exists, if not in the White House or the Supreme Court or the Senate or the House of Representatives or the media. The America I love still exists at the front desks of our public libraries."

Public libraries all across Baldwin County continue to be the gateway of learning for young children as well as seniors. The public libraries of today are also connecting to a new generation through innovative technological advances. The libraries of Baldwin County continue to adapt to 21st century standards to offer varying library services for an ever changing demographic base.

Public Libraries in Baldwin County, despite the national prognosticators predicting the demise of libraries in general, continue to adapt to a new century of thinking. With the Gates Foundation selecting Alabama to be its first recipient for public library computer distribution several years ago, public libraries in Alabama have embraced the technological age and are no longer just book peddlers. In fiscal year 2004, Alabama public librarians reported 3,291,119 electronic users at 3,370 public terminals across the entire state. The Alabama Virtual Library has also been a revolutionary project for the state with numerous other states replicating what Alabama initiated.

The Alabama Virtual Library continues to be a learning tool for all Alabamians.  Homework Help is an online tutorial open to Alabama residents after 3 p.m., and has helped thousands of students in Baldwin County. With online databases and public use terminals, Baldwin County’s public libraries are definitely reaching out to citizens demanding innovative ways of accessing library resources.

While the Baldwin County libraries continue to adapt to attract technological users, they also continue to enhance their book collections. Books will always hold a special place in the minds and hearts of public librarians. The State of Alabama did increase state aid, the amount per capita distributed to public libraries, in last year’s state budget, but Alabama continues to lag behind neighboring states in the importance of money for books.

State Aid is distributed to libraries across the state, based on the local population, and current amounts are lower than they were 20 years ago. Despite a less-than- sufficient state allocation for public libraries, many cities are increasing their book budgets. Libraries also depend upon federal grant monies through the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), to supplement their collection budget.

With technology many libraries are able to offer online book downloads to their users. The necessity of entering the library during business hours may be a thing of the past for some users, but most agree that nothing beats dealing face to face with a smiling librarian.

The libraries of Baldwin County continue to supplement books, computers, reference service, online databases and other services with enlightening programs. Local programs range from author visits, lecturers, musical events, book clubs, computer classes, reading time for pre-schoolers, teen events, and other educational and entertaining programs. The annual Summer Reading Program is a countywide event for children. Adults often remember reading programs from their childhood and return to their local library to enroll their pre-schoolers.  Libraries have always been concerned with developing young readers and improving the lives of all Alabamians.

From books to computers and programs to services, your local library is your ticket to a lifelong friendship with like-minded people who relish expanding their minds. Libraries have always held a special place in the heart and minds of Baldwin County citizens, but sometimes we ignore the ones we love the most. So, you are cordially invited to visit your local library today.  You’ll be amazed at the exciting new programs and services the libraries of Baldwin County offer.