Library provides access to free online video tutorials on computer basics and popular software programs

August 26th, 2011

 

Professional presenters provide step by step instructions that are available online 24/7.

NEWMARKET, Ontario, August 26, 2011 –
Newmarket Public Library today announced a new service that provides library members with the opportunity to expand their computer knowledge through online video tutorials.

“We are pleased to be able to provide the community with a resource that is both easy to use and a great way to build valuable computer skills,” said Todd Kyle, CEO of Newmarket Public Library. “Library members can use these tutorials at home to increase their knowledge of computers and software programs at their own speed.”

Library members can register for LearningExpressLibrary Canada tutorials, which are professionally created videos with hosts who walk viewers through instructions step by step. The tutorials have something for everyone from the novice to the more advanced computer user.

People who are new to computers and the Internet will find tutorials on the basics, such as Windows,
e-mail, surfing the Internet, social networks and more. More knowledgeable users who want to expand their skills can choose from tutorials on software programs, including Microsoft’s Word, Excel and PowerPoint, and Adobe’s Photoshop, Illustrator and Dreamweaver.

To take advantage of the tutorials Individuals will need to have the particular software program they want to learn. However, most people with a computer have Microsoft Office, and it is available on the Library’s computers so people can book time on them if they want to learn how to use Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.).

Tutorials can be accessed 24/7. They can also be added to My Center on the LearningExpress Canada website, where they are stored for quick and easy access whenever a user wants to return to them (the next time they access My Center a screen prompt will ask them if they want to resume from where they left off). When a tutorial is no longer needed, it can be easily removed from My Center.

Anyone with a valid Newmarket Public Library card will have unlimited access, free of charge, to this excellent resource. People can register for the service at www.newmarketpl.ca, by clicking on Services, then Learning Express Library.

For further information please contact:
Michael Russell, Digital Services Librarian
Tel: (905) 953-5110 Ext. 4805, mrussell@newmarketpl.ca

Lorne Chase, Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Tel: (905) 953-5110 Ext. 4870, lchase@newmarketpl.ca

Posted in 1, Community, Computers, Library Services | No Comments »

Library provides new accessible computer workstation

August 24th, 2011

NEWMARKET, Ontario, August 24, 2011 –

The accessible computer workstation featues oversize keyboard, touchscreen, adjustable desk and more.

Newmarket Public Library is now providing Library members who have a visual, physical or intellectual impairment an opportunity to book time on its new accessible computer workstation.

“The new workstation features the latest in technology,” said Todd Kyle, CEO of Newmarket Public Library. “People who have difficulty using regular computers will find it more user-friendly. We are pleased to provide them with this opportunity for a more enjoyable computing experience.”

The new workstation is equipped with the latest in assistive hardware and software, including:
Touchscreen. Users simply touch the screen with a finger, hand or the computer workstation’s stylus to move around a page.

Large Print Keyboard. EzSee™ keyboard features oversized high contrast black on yellow letters, numbers, and symbols.

Oversize mouse. Almost four times the size of a regular mouse, the Infogrip® mous

e is designed for people who need to use their entire hand for control. With blue oversized left and right buttons that help avoid unwanted mouse clicks.

Adjustable Desk. Built-in electric motor allows individuals using the desk to simply press a button to adjust the height of the desk to suit them – no manual hand cranking required.

Screen Magnifier. ZoomText 9.1 screen magnification software allows you to increase the size of the screen to make text more readable.

System Access Screen Reader. Utilizes a speech synthesizer to identify and read aloud text on a computer screen.

Kurzweil 3000. An educational software for individuals with learning difficulties, including those who are struggling with reading comprehension, individuals learning English as a second language, and persons with impaired vision or physical disabilities.

The new workstation is located on the main level of the Library. Anyone with a valid Library card can book time to use the workstation at the Circulation Desk on the main floor. For more information call 905-953-5110 Ext. 4700.

For further information please contact:
Jennifer Leveridge, Community Services Librarian
Tel: (905) 953-5110 Ext. 4710, jleveridge@newmarketpl.ca

Lorne Chase, Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Tel: (905) 953-5110 Ext. 4870, lchase@newmarketpl.ca

Posted in Community, Library Services | No Comments »

Newmarket Public Library one of the first in Ontario to launch mobile catalogue

July 27th, 2011

NEWMARKET, Ontario, July 27, 2011 – Newmarket Public Library today announced the launch of its mobile catalogue, which is accessible from Internet-enabled mobile devices and smartphones.

Now library members have the option of searching the catalogue and accessing selected Library information wherever they may be: commuting, travelling, at home, at work, or anywhere else they use their mobile devices.

“The number of people using handheld devices to access the Internet is growing and to serve them better the new user-friendly version of our catalogue is ideal for mobile technology,” said Todd Kyle, CEO of Newmarket Public Library. ““It’s an excellent addition to our existing digital resources, which include e-books and online databases.”

Newmarket Public Library is one of the first in Ontario to offer a mobile version of its catalogue, which allows a library member to:

● Search the Library’s online catalogue using a number of qualifiers including author,
subject, genre, and more.

● Check their account and reserve items.

● View new and popular titles available at the Library.

● Download e-books and audiobooks, after first downloading a free application compatible
with their mobile device from the Library’s OverDrive service.

● Check Library hours and contact information.

The Library’s new mobile website can be viewed at http://pac.newmarketpl.ca/mobile.

For further information please contact:
Todd Kyle, CEO
Tel: (905) 953-5110 Ext. 4670, tkyle@newmarketpl.ca

Lorne Chase, Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Tel: (905) 953-5110 Ext. 4870, lchase@newmarketpl.ca

Posted in Community, Library Services, e-books, mobile catalogue | 158 Comments »

Library collects food, mittens for local charities

March 2nd, 2011

Newmarket Public Library staff members Roshani (left) and Kelly display some of the over 700 items collected during the Mittens For Warmth Drive at the Library.

NEWMARKET, Ontario, March 2, 2011 – Newmarket Public Library recently undertook two initiatives aimed at collecting food and mittens for local charities. Both relied on donations from the public and the Library would like to thank everyone who contributed.

“We are very pleased with the results of both of these valuable community endeavors and the amount of items collected,” said Todd Kyle, CEO of Newmarket Public Library. “It truly displayed the community-minded spirit that exists here in Newmarket.”

Mittens For Warmth Drive
In December, the Library began a drive to gather mittens for children, youths and adults in need in our community. The drive proved to be a huge success collecting over 700 items (mittens, gloves, scarves and hats) that are being distributed to the following organizations that requested them:

● Blue Door Shelters
● Pathways for Children, Youth & Families of York Region
● Street Outreach
● Northridge Community Church (a Ministry of the Salvation Army’s Homelessness Prevention Program)
●  The Krasman Center
●  Women’s Centre of York Region
● Inn From The Cold

Food For Fines Amnesty
During the week of February 22-27 the Library helped collect non-perishable food items for the Newmarket Food Pantry by waiving overdue fines on Library material. As a result, the Library collected several hundred food items and just over $80 in cash donations. The Newmarket Food Pantry will distribute the food and use the money to buy more food items to help families and individuals in need.

For further information please contact:
Lorne Chase, Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Tel: (905) 953-5110 Ext. 4870, lchase@newmarketpl.ca

Posted in Community | 94 Comments »

Library service helps people cut through Internet clutter

January 14th, 2011

NEWMARKET, Ontario, January 14, 2011 – Newmarket Public Library, Aurora Public Library, and Whitchurch-Stouffville Public Library today announced they have joined askON, an online research help and information service  operated by staff members from Ontario libraries, colleges and universities.

“askON was created to help anyone who has ever been frustrated in their search for accurate, dependable information on the Internet,” says Todd Kyle, CEO of Newmarket Public Library. “Instead of spending hours surfing they can simply talk with a professional research librarian who will direct them to the information they need.”

Carolyn Nordheimer James, CEO of Whitchurch-Stouffville concurs. “The key is the reliability of the online
information that trained staff can direct people to, whether it’s facts for students doing school projects, statistics
for researchers, or data for parents on books for children.”

To take advantage of askON people need only visit their local libray’s website where they can click on the askON logo, and then type in a question. Their question will be reviewed by an Ontario research expert who will respond to them either immediately or as soon as possible to assist them in locating information.

Louise Proctor Maio, CEO of Aurora Public Library, points out another advantage of askON. “For people who may find it difficult to visit the library due to an illness or disability, the service allows them to easily get informed and reliable information  without having to leave their home.”

Begun in 2008, askON demonstrates the power of collaboration. There are currently 42 public libraries, 14 colleges and 7 universities that provide the service, which is available 45 hours per week. Newmarket Public Library, Aurora Public Library, Whitchurch-Stoufville Public Library and Georgina Public Libraries join a growing list of communities throughout Ontario that include Barrie, Belleville, Brampton, Sudbury, Hamilton, Kitchener, London, North Bay, Ottawa, Thunder Bay, Vaughan, Waterloo, Windsor, and  many others. A list of all the participating members can be found at www.askon.ca.

Operational, administrative and technical costs of running askON are provided by Knowledge Ontario, a non-profit collaborative of organizations that includes public libraries, colleges, universities, museums, and more.

For further information please contact:
Todd Kyle, CEO
Newmarket Public Library
905-953-5110 Ext. 4670

Louise Procter Maio, CEO
Aurora Public Library
905-727-9494 Ext. 221

Carolyn Nordheimer James, CEO
Whitchurch-Stouffville Public Library
905-642-7323 Ext. 223

Posted in Community, Library Services | 45 Comments »

Libraries’ community information database undergoes name change to signify extended reach

November 19th, 2010

York Info new name for York North Community Information & Volunteer Database   

NEWMARKET, Ontario, Friday, November 19, 2010 – Partners in the York North Community Information & Volunteer Database – East Gwillimbury Public Library, Georgina Public Libraries, Newmarket Public Library, and Whitchurch- Stouffville Library – today announced the database they maintain is changing its name from York North to York Info. 

York Info better represents the expanding reach of the database, which provides information and services for a growing number of people and non-profit organizations throughout York Region. It also reflects the role York Info plays as a data partner for 211Ontario.ca, a website run by the Ontario government that provides information on social services and programs throughout the province. York Info is also the recognized data partner for 211 Central.

 “York Info is an example of the collaborative spirit that exists among the four partner libraries,” said Carolyn Nordheimer James, CEO of Whitchurch-Stouffville Public Library. “Helping people find the information they need, including services that assist with personal and family crises, is an example of what libraries do best.”

 York Info will continue to provide the same high level of service to people and non-profit organizations in the region, providing a wide range of brochures and other sources of information on local organizations and services, which can be accessed online, in person, or by phone.

For further information please contact:
Lorne Chase, Marketing & Communications Coordinator                                 
Tel: (905) 953-5110 Ext. 4870, lchase@newmarketpl.ca

Jennifer Leveridge, Community Services Librarian
Tel: (905) 953-5110 Ext. 4710

Posted in Community, Library Services | 48 Comments »

Community organization open house

October 16th, 2010

NEWMARKET, Ontario, October 15, 2010 – Newmarket Public Library today announced that the following community groups will be on hand Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2010, from 2– 8 p.m. to talk with people about the services they offer and help celebrate the fifth anniversary of the library’s community information & volunteer centre, which has undergone a name change from Newmarket Connections to York Info. 

  • Women’s Support Network of York Region
  • AIDS Committee of York Region
  • York Regional Police
  • York Region Abuse Program
  • Welcome Centre
  • Literacy Council York Simcoe
  • Deafblind Ontario Services
  • CHATS (Community Home Assistance to Seniors)
  • Doane House Hospice
  • Town of Newmarket Recreation and Culture
  • Job Skills Immigrant Information Services
  • Kerrys Place Autism Services
  • Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario
  • Welcome Wagon
  • Words Alive Literary Festival
    York North Basketball
  • Inn from the Cold
  • Victim Services of York Region
  • York Professional Care and Education
  • Newmarket Horticultural Society
  • York Support Services Network
  • Organization for the Rescue of Animals
  • Living Water Faith Fellowship
  • North Newmarket Lions Club
  • York-Simcoe Amateur Astronomers
  • U.S. Education Savings Plan
  • Master Gardeners of Ontario
  • Citizens for Affordable Housing (Housing Help Centre)
  • Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church

Why change the name of the centre? York Info better represents the centre’s expanding reach, providing services for a growing number of people and non-profit organizations throughout York Region. It also reflects the role York Info plays as a data partner for 211Ontario.ca, a website run by the Ontario government that provides information on social services and programs throughout the province.

“Over the past five years we have seen steady growth in the number of people coming to York Info for community information and to find out about volunteer opportunities,” said Todd Kyle, CEO of Newmarket Public Library. “Not only does the centre inform people about what’s happening in their community, it helps them get involved and make a difference. York Info illustrates perfectly the Library’s role as a community hub.”

York Info will continue to provide the same high level of service to people and non-profit organizations in the region, providing a wide range of brochures and other sources of information on local organizations and services, which can be accessed online, in person, or by phone.

People can also visit the centre’s York Info Community Information & Volunteer Database for listings of       volunteer opportunities and to contact non-profit organizations directly; the database is a partnership of the East Gwillimbury Public Library, Georgina Public Libraries, Newmarket Public Library, and Whitchurch-Stouffville Library. Individuals can also arrange to meet with York Info’s Volunteer Services Coordinator, who can provide them with recommendations for volunteer positions that suit their personal interests.

Media are invited to attend
YORK INFO’s OPEN HOUSE ORGANIZATION FAIR
Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2010 2:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Official launch 2:30 p.m.
at Newmarket Public Library, 438 Park Avenue

Facts & Figures on York Info

   ●    In 2009 York Info staff answered almost 3,700 queries for information.

●      York Info contributes to the 211Ontario.ca website, a directory funded by the Ontario government
         that provides information on social services and programs throughout Ontario.

   ●   Over 1,500 community records reside in the York Info Community Information & Volunteer Database,
         including records for government social services, as well as service clubs and non-profit organizations
         (i.e. charities, sports clubs, hobby groups, book clubs, and more).

For further information please contact:
Lorne Chase, Marketing & Communications Coordinator                                 
Tel: (905) 953-5110 Ext. 4870, lchase@newmarketpl.ca
Jennifer Leveridge, Community Services Librarian
Tel: (905) 953-5110 Ext. 4710

Posted in 1, Community, Events, Open House | 102 Comments »

Library nominated for Business Excellence Award

September 9th, 2010

NEWMARKET, Ontario,
September 9, 2010 – Newmarket Public Library today announced that it has been selected as one of the finalists for a Newmarket Chamber of Commerce 2010 Business Excellence Award, specifically the Bell Technology Award which recognizes businesses that have demonstrated excellence in innovation, adaptability and the successful application of new technology.

     “This nomination recognizes the continued improvements the Library has
been making to our services through the use of technology, especially recent additions through the Shared Digital Infrastructure (SDI) project,” said Todd Kyle, CEO of Newmarket Public Library. “We’re honoured to be included with the other finalists.”

     Under the SDI project, NPL underwent many significant changes, ranging from a new website that integrates social media, to the outfitting of books with radio frequency ID tags to allow for quicker and easier checkouts, to the introduction of a vidoeconferencing system for meeting rooms, and many other improvements. 
     The SDI project was a joint venture between the Newmarket Public Library, the Town of Newmarket, Newmarket Chamber of Commerce and Southlake Regional Health Centre, with funding provided by the federal government.     

     The Business Excellence Awards are the Chamber’s premiere social event of the year, honouring major business achievements, community services, and contributions to the economic and social well-being of the Town of Newmarket.  

     The 2010 Business Excellence Awards will take place at The Manor, Carrying Place Golf and Country Club on Wednesday, October 20th. 

For further information please contact:
Lorne Chase, Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Tel: (905) 953-5110 Ext. 4870, lchase@newmarketpl.ca

 

Posted in 1, Community, Events | 1 Comment »

Do-it-yourself interlibrary loans

June 30th, 2010

NEWMARKET, Ontario, June 30, 2010 – Newmarket Public Library today announced its new service for library members: Patron-Initiated Interlibrary Loans, which allow people to request books and material from other libraries themselves online.
“This is a convenient service for people who want to go online and request books or material that the Library may not have,” said Todd Kyle, CEO of Newmarket Public Library. “It’s a simple process that provides people with the option of making an interlibrary loan on their own, but they can still choose to have our staff place a request for them if they prefer.”

Interlibrary loans between public libraries have been a popular service for years, allowing library members to find books their own libraries may not have. Newmarket Public Library is home to over 175,000 items, but due to space restrictions it is impossible to have an all-inclusive collection.

To take advantage of the new Patron-Initiated Library Loan service, library members are required to register at the library or contact us (providing their full name, address, home phone number and library card number).

A patron record is created in the INFOntario system (a virtual catalogue and Interlibrary Loan network for Ontario public libraries), and library members are provided with a User ID and password. To make a request, library members simply visit www.newmarketpl.ca/my-npl/inter-library-loan and follow the steps provided.

Anyone intersted in the new services is invited to call Newmarket Public Library at 905-953-5110 Ext. 4850 for more information.

For further information please contact:
Lorne Chase, Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Tel: (905) 953-5110 Ext. 4870

Posted in Library Services | No Comments »

Bowman art collection goes digital

June 10th, 2010

NEWMARKET, Ontario, June 10, 2010 – Newmarket Public Library today announced that its Bowman Collection of artwork by local artists can now be viewed online. A fixture of the library since 1998, the paintings, sculptures and other artworks were purchased with funds donated by Dorothy and Jim Bowman and their daughter Carol Bowman.
“We are very pleased to be able to be able to provide people with the opportunity to view these timeless art treasures online,” said Todd Kyle, CEO of Newmarket Public Library. “They are prominently displayed throughout the library for everyone to see, but now they have a new medium through which they can be enjoyed, with the potential of a much wider, even a worldwide audience.”

The library’s Bowman Collection can be seen on the Internet thanks to the Shared Digital Infrastructure project – a joint venture between the library, Town of Newmarket, Newmarket Chamber of Commerce and Southlake Regional Health Centre, with funding provided by the federal government.

Members of the project photographed the art pieces, scanned the photos into a computer, and uploaded them to the website Our Ontario. The website is run by Knowledge Ontario, a non-profit association that creates culturally and historically significant digital content for everyone to enjoy.

Each piece is reproduced as a dazzling high resolution image and appears with a brief description of the artist and notes on their work. You can search the site using keywords, and increase the size of the thumbnail images to fit your computer screen. There is also a feature that lets you use the images to create electronic postcards.

To view the collection visit www.newmarketpl.ca and click on “Bowman Collection goes digital” under What’s New. Or drop by the Library to view these exceptional works of art in person.

For further information please contact:
Lorne Chase, Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Tel: (905) 953-5110 Ext. 4870

Posted in Art collection, Bowman Collection | 100 Comments »

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