3 Computers to Add to Libraries’ Resources

Orange Public Library officials will unveil three new computers at the main branch Thursday, complete with a demonstration showing how to use the Internet.

The library’s volunteers will be feted immediately after the tutorial as part of a celebration of National Library Week, which runs through Saturday.

One of the three personal computers will become the main library’s official Internet access station, said Gary Wann, director of community and library services.

Students and residents will be able to use the other two terminals for work on CD-ROM at the El Modena and Taft branch libraries.

“This is for complete public use,” Wann said. “This is getting into the World Wide Web site.”

The Central Library at North Center Street and Chapman Avenue already has one computer with some Internet access, but its capabilities are somewhat restricted.

“It’s a horse race to the sign-up sheet as soon as we open up,” Wann said.

Thursday’s Internet demonstration begins at 4 p.m. and culminates a week of activities with “Log-on @ the Library Day.”

Kids who visit any branch of the library this week can enter a drawing for a “Kids Connect @ the Library” T-shirt. The drawing will be held during the festivities Thursday.

The party will be in part a public thank you to the Orange Rotary Club, which donated all three computers, Wann said.

About 40 library volunteers also will be recognized with a party at 4:30 p.m. at the main library.

Both parties are open to children and adults free of charge. Internet access also will be free at the libraries.