One afternoon when I was working at the Village library, a resident came in to sign up for a library card. Being new to the area, she inquired about the best place to meet people.  Without hesitation, I recommended the Library.
 
In my opinion, the best way to meet new people at the Library is to get involved. Whether you are new to the community or have been a resident for some time, consider volunteering at the Library or at the Friends of the Sedona Library Used Book Store. The Library offers many volunteer opportunities:  work at circulation, assist with computers, shelve materials, and repair books, to name a few. Training is provided.  You may also volunteer to serve on the SPL Board or the Friends of the Library Board. During the last fiscal year, our amazing library volunteers contributed 16,992 volunteer hours.  You always make a difference when you volunteer.
 
Another great way to meet people is to attend library programs. The Library offers diverse programs for all ages. In fact, last year Sedona Public Library hosted 857 programs. Find library programs that appeal to your current interests, or explore new pastimes.
 
Here are a few program ideas. Attend an Arizona Humanities program, participate in a book discussion, learn more about finances with the Investment Club, star gaze with the Sirius Lookers, watch a film at the Monday night movie, or discuss a documentary at the monthly Reel Life Movie Night film series. Practice your language skills with the conversational Spanish or conversational French groups, or improve your computer skills by registering for an iPad/iPhone/Mac workshop. If you like to sew, you can join the Sit and Stitch group. Meet parents and caregivers when you take your children/grandchildren to one of the many outstanding children’s programs offered by youth services. Check out the library events calendar at www.sedonalibrary.org for more information about library programs and events.
 
If you cannot find any programs that spark your interest, why not offer to share a new program? The Library is always looking for ideas to expand programs and extend community outreach.
 
Speaking from my personal experience of working at the Library, I have met many wonderful people and made new friends. As part of my community outreach efforts, I have had opportunities to work with speakers and authors and to partner with various community organizations. In addition, I have attended workshops and conferences and networked with librarians across the state.  As a result, I have grown personally and professionally.  Yes, I would definitely say the Library is a great place to meet people.
 
With your generous contributions and support from our community, Sedona Public Library continues to fulfill its vision: to serve as the heart of the community; a special place where the past is honored and future dreams are nourished. Thank YOU for being the best part of Sedona Public Library!

For better or worse, technology has changed our lives. Technology has definitely changed the way libraries deliver library services. To keep up with the rapidly changing world of automation, libraries are delivering more services electronically. This article will highlight some of Sedona Library’s digital tools and services, including a brand-new video streaming collection!
 
YLN APP:  The new Yavapai Library Network mobile catalog makes it quick and easy to access and manage your library account on the go. With the YLN app, you can search the catalog, order items from any YLN library, place and suspend holds, check your due dates, and renew items. You may also manage your bookshelves by adding books, CDs, DVDs, and other media for borrowing later.  These are just a few of the features offered by the YLN app.
 
LIBBY APP:  If you are a fan of e-books and e-audiobooks, then you will love the Libby app from OverDrive. Libby is compatible with Android and iOS. While you may still use the “classic” app to access OverDrive, many library users prefer the upgrades, ease, and convenience of Libby.  Whether you use the OverDrive app or the Libby app, the Library’s OverDrive digital collection offers many advantages: free downloads, no late fees, and immediate reading of e-books or listening to audiobooks. Digital books and audiobooks are especially nice if you are traveling.
 
KANOPY: Sedona Public Library is pleased to offer Kanopy, a new streaming video service. Kanopy has been described as “thoughtful entertainment,” with a selection of over 30,000 on-demand videos, including new releases, independent and international cinema, classic movies, documentaries, educational films, and more. Library cardholders can access Kanopy on their home computers or with the Kanopy app on mobile devices. Kanopy is free and easy. You must have a valid library card from Sedona Library or Sedona Library in the Village to access Kanopy.
 
RBDIGITAL MAGAZINES: The Library’s RBdigital collection offers full-color digital magazines for reading on desktop computers and mobile devices. RBdigital has new and backlist issues of popular magazines, with no holds, no checkout periods, and no limits. You may check out as many issues as you want and keep them in your account as long as you want. Download the app or access the RBdigital magazine database on the Library’s website at www.sedonalibrary.org.

​If you have questions about the Library’s digital services, please call the Reference Desk at Sedona Public Library at 928-282-771, ext. 114. For personal assistance, stop by the Reference Desk at the main library in West Sedona or the Village library at Bell Rock Plaza in VOC.
 
Technology will never replace the joy of browsing the shelves, holding a book in your hands, or receiving personal assistance from a library staff member or helpful library volunteer, but sometimes it comes in handy.