By Bryan Manabat
Saipan– There’s a fallacious notion that public libraries are going the way of the dodo. Not in the Northern Mariana Islands, where the state library is very much alive and kicking.
To date, the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library in Susupe has issued 46,410 library cards in a territory with a population of 49,796.
“While the way people access information may be changing, the importance of libraries and the love of physical books remain strong," said Erlinda Naputi, the library’s director. "Yes, people still check out physical books from libraries. While the rise of e-books and audiobooks has certainly impacted library usage, physical books remain popular for a variety of reasons.”
Recognizing the significant impact of personal devices and internet access on how people consume and access information in the digital age, the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library has embraced this shift while maintaining hard copies of literary resources and preserving Indigenous cultural heritage.
JKPL, which marked its 33rd anniversary last December, has successfully navigated the 21st-century digital landscape.
“By embracing digital resources, enhancing its physical space, and engaging with the community online, the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library has successfully transitioned into the digital age. JKPL remains committed to providing equitable access to information and technology, supporting lifelong learning, and fostering a sense of community in the digital era,” Naputi said.
Through generous contributions from two prominent local businessmen, Jose “Joeten” Camacho Tenorio and Manuel “Kiyu” Seman Villagomez, JKPL opened its doors in 1991. Since then, JKPL has expanded its digital collection, offering eBooks, audiobooks, virtual learning resources, asynchronous continuing education courses, and educational databases accessible from a personal device anywhere with an internet connection.
“The library has invested in e-learning platforms that provide access to online courses, tutorials, and educational resources for all ages. JKPL offers digital literacy programs to help community members develop the skills needed to navigate the digital world effectively,” Naputi said.
Among the accommodations JKPL offers the community are public workstations, maker spaces, and collaborative workspaces.
“JKPL’s maker spaces are equipped with Cricut printing, button makers, and other digital fabrication tools to encourage creativity and innovation,” Naputi said. “For collaborative workspaces, the library utilizes the McREL Room/Video teleconference room’s physical space, including collaborative workspaces that support group projects and digital collaboration.”
JKPL provides computers with internet connection and a variety of software programs. It also offers free Wi-Fi access, printing and document-scanning services for students and patrons for employment purposes and job searches.
The public library provides a limited amount of assistive technology and equipment to help learners with disabilities participate in educational activities, Naputi added.
Related devices available in the library include Google AR and VR/Google Cardboard, braille talking books, braille bookmarks, Nintendo Wii, Nintendo Switch, Windows screen reading software, E-Books AV2, large print materials, keyboards with large tactile buttons, noise- canceling earphones, tablets available to download apps that have cognitive aids, including computer or electrical assistive devices, to help people with memory, attention, or other challenges in their thinking skills.
“Our library staff is available to assist patrons with using the library's digital resources. We are always looking for ways to improve our digital access accommodation. If you have any suggestions, please let us know,” she added.
In addition, JKPL offers Bookmobile Outreach and Technology Mobile Express services to underserved communities.
JKPL offers a diverse collection and a wide range of materials, including books, magazines, newspapers and multimedia resources that cater to diverse interests and needs.
“We build on community engagement. Active involvement in community events and programs fosters a sense of belonging and keeps the library at the heart of local life. We strengthen partnerships," Naputi said.
"Collaborating with schools, community organizations, and businesses expands the library's reach and impact. We provide fun and exciting educational programs for our community. Hosting workshops, lectures, and other educational programs positions the library as a hub for lifelong learning,” Naputi added.
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