Check Out Updates at Park Central Branch Library; "Changing America" Series Continues with "Freedom Riders;" Public Enjoying Convenience of Passport Service at Library Center
August 7, 2014 —
If you haven’t seen it lately, the Park Central Branch Library on the Square has undergone some major updates that should make mobile device users especially happy. Other changes were based on Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design recommendations.
We’ve installed a “cyberbar” across the front, with stools and outlets for visitors who want to take advantage of free WiFi with their electronic devices. Two new checkout desks were also installed in the front for better service, and the glass restroom entry doors still provide the desired privacy. One of the biggest changes: the large cushioned reading “nooks” were removed, providing much more seating and table work spaces for patrons.
As with any building update, there are always tweaks. We hope you will visit soon and see what’s new.
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Hundreds of people filled the Central High School auditorium on July 31 to hear about one family’s personal role in the landmark 1954 Brown v. Board of Education case. Linda Brown Thompson and Cheryl Brown Henderson’s visit was part of the “Changing America” series. It continues Thursday, Aug. 7, from 6-8 p.m. at the Springfield Art Museum with the PBS documentary “Freedom Riders,” about the courageous band of civil rights activists who in 1961 challenged segregation in the South.
The exhibit “Changing America: the Emancipation Proclamation, 1863 and the March on Washington, 1963” continues at the Library Center through Aug. 22.
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You just never know when you’ll need a U.S. passport. Recently, a Springfield woman won a cruise through her employer but had no passport. No problem. She applied for one easily at the Library Center, which accepts applications with no appointment. Between June 9 and July 31, the library staff accepted 286 passport applications.
Traveling abroad this year? Booking a cruise? The Library Center makes it convenient to apply for a passport and get a photo. (Renewals must go through travel.state.gov.) Before your application visit, go to travel.state.gov to learn all required documents and payments. Hours are 8:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday, and 1-4:30 p.m. Sunday.