Sussex has new library without walls

Sussex County has rolled out a library without walls.

County council got a firsthand look at a new revamped, interactive website during its Nov. 29 meeting.

Even with all the bells and whistles, the website reflects the mission of the county's 14 libraries. “We still want to promote the love of reading,” said Jill DiPaolo of Lewes, digital librarian with Sussex County Department of Libraries.

Most – if not all – library services are now available on any digital device including phones, tablets and computers, she said.

Library and information-technology staff have worked over the past year to upgrade the site, where users will find information about every library in the county, special events, classes, contact information and programs. Users will also find the mobile library's schedule and the 24-hour Dial-a-Story program at 856-3535.

Searches are divided into three categories – visit, research and browse.

Information on the county's libraries is found under the visit section.

Under research, users can find information about health and welfare, help with homework, business and employment, genealogy and local history, arts and culture, and online learning, including Massive Open Online Courses, which offers free sites from hundreds of universities and other sites in numerous fields of study.

Under browse, users can find books and other media, as well as book clubs. Library staff can even compile a personalized reading list based on a user's interests and preferences. There is also a link to Flipster, an online database of hundreds of magazines.

Just a few of the options available (some require a library card):

Best-seller and award-winning book lists; an author database; links to historical societies and museums; story-time schedules; pages for children including games; resume writing and interview guides; health coverage information; online courses; computer tutorials; genealogy research; finding a doctor; and even learning a new language.

The website is www.sussexlibraries.org. Sussex County has 11 independent libraries and three county-run libraries, Milton, Greenwood and South Coastal in Bethany Beach.