Visit to the New Advanced Learning Library

After much anticipation, residents of Wichita Presbyterian Manor were treated to private tours of the new Advanced Learning Library by Director of Wichita Public Libraries, Cynthia Berner, and some of her staff. Residents got an in-depth look at beautiful open, airy spaces throughout the building.

The library is now home to state-of-the-art electronics and an assortment of devices for taking the library into the future of technology. A 16-screen, 16-by 9-foot digital monitor located in the pavilion greets visitors with ongoing library events and information. Soon, it will have touch screen access for patrons to find exactly what they need during their visit.

Visitors can access one of more than 60 (soon to be 100) computers throughout the library. There are reading nooks and collaboration tables to meet with friends or colleagues.

Internet access is beyond high-speed to help visitors stay connected. There are plug-ins scattered generously throughout the library to cater to those needing a charge for their electronic devices. There are multiple meeting rooms, conference rooms, an AV green room, and even a board room that all can be reserved for use.

Wichita Presbyterian Manor also was able to take the Bookmarks book club (the resident book club) to host their monthly meeting in one of the conference rooms.

The library has added self-checkout stations to help eliminate long wait lines.

Returning books has never been easier. A conveyor belt system scans all incoming items with high-tech cameras and sorts in correct bins making re-shelving materials easier on the staff. Plus, the conveyor belt can process up to 1,100 items in an hour.

The children’s area, dubbed the “children’s learning garden,” boasts more than 10,000 square feet of interactive learning and play, promoting problem solving and early educational skills.

Presbyterian Manor residents are familiar with local coffee shop Reverie Roasters and can now enjoy their delicious coffee and other beverages as well as an assortment of brunch/lunch items during certain library hours.

The residents were in awe of the amazing spaces throughout the building. The tours were very much appreciated. Residents are excited to visit the new space often in the future.

PHOTOS: top, John Decker, Barbara Decker, June Beachler, Mary Margaret Wilson, Anna Benoit, Pat Wiebe, Ann Murray, Barbara Dravis and Deb Derber pose with a librarian; bottom, Wilma McLean, Rosalyn Lauer, Nor Masters, Wanda Wood, Marion Engelstad, Maxine McKinney and Mary Phelan.

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