New meeting pod, class set of ukuleles examples of library supporting students

As students across Prince Edward County are back to school, the Library is excited to continue help support learning in new and continuing ways.

Class visits to a nearby local branch are a great example. Students – of all ages – can visit the public library, receive their library membership, and learn about the many offerings available to them.

Library staff can read stories, give tours, demonstrate complicated makerspace equipment and more – all targeted to the age of the students. For schools who are too far to walk to their local public library, we are also happy to visit the school and bring along a few representative samples.

The Musical Instrument Lending Library, in particular the class set of ukuleles, has also been popular with school classes. A teacher can borrow enough ukuleles for a whole class and we’re happy to provide a longer loan as needed.

Building a meeting pod

An initiative at the Picton Branch Library will see the Library partnering with Loyola School of Adult and Continuing Education, part of the Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board, to provide a quiet meeting space.

Loyola helps students beyond the K-12 age find unique pathways to achieve their high school credits and has a long history in the County.

Library CEO Barbara Sweet and Loyola principal Philip Carney arranged for a meeting pod to be added to the public library. The space is soundproof, ventilated and very comfortable, and students and instructors will be meeting regularly in the room. Outside of school hours, it will be available for booking, just like the library’s meeting rooms.

Meeting pod new at Picton branch library

The Picton Branch Library is “flexible for learners and an amazingly designed space,” said Carney. “It’s very learner-centric and well-thought-out, and we’re excited to have the opportunity to make Loyola even more visible in the County. We were so pleased to be met with open arms by Barbara.”

At the public library, we are always looking for ideas and opportunities to work with schools and other learners. All suggestions are welcome – drop by your local branch. Teachers interested in learning about class visits to the public library and the Musical Instrument Lending Library can contact liz@peclibrary.org For more information and to check out the meeting pod, drop by the Picton Branch or call (613) 476-5962.