Harris Library in line for Apple upgrades after challenge win

PROVIDENCE — On Saturday, the Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services (OLIS) and the Office of Innovation announced Woonsocket Harris Public Library as the Studio Rhode Next Generation Library Challenge winner.

The Studio Rhode Award will supply the library with Apple technology, professional services, technical support and additional resources from the state and other partners to implement “a next generation library project.”

“Libraries enrich communities, providing resources that can truly change lives,” Gov. Gina A. Raimondo said. “My grandfather learned English at his local public library, and it was hearing about the closure of libraries around the state that inspired me to get involved with public service. I’m excited to see how Woonsocket Harris Public Library transforms the community.”

Using the Smithsonian Institution’s and MuseWeb Foundation’s Storytelling Toolkit as a reference source, Harris Library will launch a multi-generational project called ‘My Woonsocket Life’ to share both the proud history of the city and its culturally rich present through personal stories. In the process, the project will help update the image of Woonsocket, using digital media to document the city’s past, present and its hopes for the future.

The library also plans to use the Studio Rhode multi-generational learning framework to empower residents to play a critical role in the Woonsocket City Planning Department’s community planning process. Residents will learn new skills and use digital tools to create a collective identity for Woonsocket.