DAPHNE, Ala. — Since opening a new computer lab, the Daphne Public Library has added numerous technological features. 

Improvements include upgraded software, free access to online databases, CD players, and multiple training opportunities.

The new computer lab offers patrons access to 16 additional Internet workstations with an overhead digital projector for training. Two stations have large-print keyboards and Zoom Text software for vision-impaired visitors. One station offers JAWS software, which allows the screen to be read to the user. Headphones are available at each station.

Professional software

With an Institute of Museum and Library Services grant and Library Services & Technology Act grants over the past two years, the library has installed the newest Microsoft Office Suite as well as Adobe Photoshop Elements, a complete photo-editing program for improving, organizing, and sharing photographs. Adobe X Pro will soon be available on two workstations. This software allows documents to be converted to PDF files, which are often required when working with or submitting materials online. Adobe Illustrator CS5 will be available on one workstation. This software provides sophisticated drawing and painting tools for graphic design, Web and video projects.  Rosetta Stone Spanish, Levels 1, 2, and 3 are also now available in the library.

The library is currently working toward offering additional languages.

Users must register at the front desk once and get special headsets at each visit prior to using Rosetta Stone.

Research sources

The library offers access to the state-sponsored Alabama Virtual Library, which is now easier to use, a spokesperson stated. The AVL now offers Geo-Location authentication to its users, allowing most users to access AVL from home without needing an AVL username and password. Log on to http://www.avl.lib.al.us, and begin using the 68 free resources.  Databases include encyclopedias, Chilton’s auto repair manuals, biography databases, and journals.

Life tools

Also, the grants have allowed the addition of databases including Ancestry, Heritage Quest and Career Cruising. The first two databases can be used to search for genealogical information or to complete historical research. Ancestry may only be accessed from the library, but may be used at any library Internet workstation.  Heritage Quest may be accessed from the library or the home with a Daphne Library card number. Career Cruising is available to patrons from the library or the home. This database is a career-guidance-and-planning system. People of all ages may use these tools to find the right career, and to explore education and training options. Career Cruising also assists students in preparing for the SAT/ACT college entrance exams. Icons are on the library computer desktops for easy access to each database.

Digital Library

The latest addition to the Daphne Public Library’s offerings includes membership in Camellia Net Digital Library, otherwise known as Alabama’s Digital Library, an Alabama consortium for libraries allowing downloads of audio books, music and e-books. The site offers a digital media-guided tour for new users that explains the services and formats offered. All patrons will need to access Camellia Net is a valid Daphne Public Library card, Internet access (in the library or at home), and a computer or device that meets the system requirements for the types of materials they wish to download. For planning ahead, the compatibility of devices with Camellia Net digital materials is available at http://www.overdrive.com/resources/drc/ and some devices will work with more formats than others. More information concerning incompatible devices and devices that may not be compatible with all formats offered by Camellia Net is available at http://www.overdrive.com/resources/drc/incompatibledevices.aspx.  The library plans to purchase several devices for use in training sessions with patrons. Due to the vendor’s online integration schedule, this service should be available to Daphne patrons by the end of May.

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