By Andrea Goodall, Herrick District Library
In between home (the first space) and work (the second space) is the hangout (the third space). It’s a space where people come together to have a good time, share amongst themselves and learn from others.
Herrick District Library strives to be a third space for the Holland area.
At Herrick District Library (HDL), people can gather around a lunch from the café, use free Wi-Fi to access the world, study in quiet, isolated spaces, or meet to engage in dialogue in groups of five to 200.
What all these events share in common is the purpose of advancing community knowledge and improving quality of life in the Holland area.
The January series “Curious About …” will teach people about a number of technologies that can make the lives of those living with disabilities (and everyone) better. That includes hands-free technology and assistive devices, 3D printing, and free audio and braille books.
Also in January, the preschool fair will give parents of little ones an idea of resources the area has to offer.
And consider that future leaders aren’t simply born; they are nurtured and grown. Herrick District Library’s Teen Advisory Board, Lakeshore Youth Leadership and Social Justice Club, whose members designed a program that brought together people from across generations to knit scarves for those in need, all work to that end.
And a new Kids Advisory Board will bring youth in third through fifth grades into the fold when it begins meeting in January.
HDL has just too many third space programs to list here, but find more about all these and other events at Herrickdl.org.
— Andrea Goodell is the community relations associate at Herrick District Library.
This Week’s Sustainability Framework Theme
Community Knowledge: The collective knowledge and energy of the community is an incredible resource that must be channeled to where it is needed.
Living Sustainably is a collection of community voices sharing updates about local sustainability initiatives. It is presented by the Holland-Hope College Sustainability Institute, a joint project of Hope College, the City of Holland and Holland Board of Public Works. Go to www.hope.edu/sustainability-institute for more information.