On a sweltering summer afternoon, the North Philadelphia community gathered in the cool confines of Charles Library to explore its services and resources.
Temple University Libraries partnered with the Temple Community Gateway to host an open house showcasing all the library has to offer including innovative spaces like the Loretta C. Duckworth Scholars Studio, the Special Collections Research Center and the Community Computer Lab.
“Temple is a special university that opens itself to the community,” said Antonio Romero, director of the Gateway. “This is one of many instances in which we have our arms wide open to our neighbors, family and friends.”
The Gateway is devoted to centralizing all community-facing work throughout the university and making sure that all Philadelphians, particularly North Philadelphians, can access resources available through Temple and its community and government partners.
During the open house, community members toured Charles Library, led by Temple Libraries and Gateway staff.
They learned about the Temple University Libraries Community Computer Program in which visitors and local residents have access to computers with Microsoft Suite software as well as black and white printing, a scanner and a microfilm reader. The library also provides resume and job-seeking services, online resources for life needs, and computer classes for the community.
Additionally, North Philadelphia neighbors discovered the rich offerings of Temple’s Special Collections Research Center, housing rare books, manuscripts, archives, university records and other primary resources to support teaching and learning.
They also found out about the Charles L. Blockson Afro-American Collection, which encompasses more than 700,000 artifacts from 1581 to the present day.
When residents traveled up to the third floor of Charles Library, the makerspace immediately captured their attention. This open-access space in the Loretta C. Duckworth Scholars Studio contains assorted equipment such as 3D printers, laser and vinyl cutters, sewing machines, and other tools for personal and academic projects. Makerspace staff are available to assist users with the equipment, and they host workshops ranging from custom keychain design to holiday décor.
“I especially loved the makerspace because I love to create,” said Kathleen Lyons, a North Philadelphia resident who has already begun utilizing the library’s resources. “I’m taking computer classes in the library to gain knowledge. With that knowledge, I can then teach others.”
Throughout the tour, Temple Libraries and the Gateway prompted neighbors to provide feedback including how each resource could benefit them or their community. Residents noted that the library’s services keep history alive and enable personal and professional growth.
“This event provided so much history and insight into what Temple offers,” said Lyons, who aspires to attend Temple. “It spoke to me about things that I enjoy, and that’s what made it so special. It was a beautiful event, and I’d love more tours and events.”
“The university is committed to being a better partner in the neighborhood and being connected to the community,” added Joe Lucia, dean of Temple Libraries. “When we designed Charles Library, we talked a lot about making it a welcoming space. I’m hoping through the hospitality of our staff and the availability of our services that we’ll continue thinking about this as a place to do many things."
Find more information on how to get connected with resources and services through Temple’s Community Gateway.