Books are a gateway to another world. They allow rural farmers who have never even seen a sidewalk to see what life is like at a fast-paced company that does DVD replication in Toronto. The information that is contained in books, and on their companion, the internet, should be available to all. This is the principle behind public libraries. If you're an avid user of libraries or you think you might need to access some information or city resources when you move to Fontana, California, you'll be pleased to know that Fontana has just opened a new library: the Lewis Library and Technology Center.
Funded with city tax money and contributions from the Fontana Library Foundation's campaigns, the Lewis Library embraces the latest technologies for information dissemination. The library's cataloguing and shelving system has been updated to include books on previously unindexed topics like alpha ETFs and expanded to include a children's library. There is free internet access and free access to software programs and databanks that can assist patrons with learning or research. In most libraries it can be hard to get computer time, but the new Fontana library has over 200 public access computers.
If you don't know how to use these computers you can visit the library's new computer technology support and training center. There people who have always worked with their hands to install window weights and fix cars can enter the virtual world and learn to create documents, send email, or accomplish more complex tasks like making their own website. Instructive programs are available in other subjects as well, from homework help and tutoring to Spanish language.
All of these improvements were made in response to a rapidly growing population that had made Fontana the most underserved community in California in terms of library resources. Now there's a wealth of extra resources available. You might attend a lecture from the founder of a London, Ontario animal hospital in the new 330 seat auditorium or visit the career center for help finding a job. There are homework clubs for the kids, book clubs for every age, and over 142,000 items to consult. There's even a book store and coffee shop. All of this has made the new library an ideal candidate for a community hub.
Located in the Fontana Civic Center, the new library doesn't just teach technology but also embodies the latest in green technology. The entire library is LEED certified and has high efficiency electrical appliances and lighting. The traditional fire sleeve and harsh chemical suppression system has been replaced by ozone friendly materials and the library conserves over 212,000 gallons of water per year through low-flow fixtures and climate-friendly landscaping.
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