iPads Available at Goodnow Library

Whether you’re interested in cooking, geography, painting, the latest news – or just want to play computer games – the Goodnow Library’s new iPads are for you.

The iPads are attracting attention in the Children’s Room, where five new tablets have been installed. Adults and teens can use five additional iPads set up on the library’s second floor.

The iPads in the Children’s Room are loaded with popular applications such as Paint Sparkles Draw – My First Coloring Book, PBS’ Wild Kratts Creature Math and Disney’s Don’t Let the Pigeon Run this App!

Adult and teen iPads let users access websites and apps, ranging from The Wall Street Journal, Web MD, Epicurious Recipes, National Geographic Atlas and Trip Advisor to Art Studio and Pandora Radio. Cult favorite Angry Birds leads the games lineup, which includes Trivial Pursuit, Scrabble and Yatzee.

Apple tablets operate with a touchscreen that includes a virtual keyboard, and connect to the Internet wirelessly. They’re a gift from the Goodnow Library Foundation, paid for by funds raised through last October’s highly successful 150th Anniversary Gala.

The Foundation has also purchased a wireless printer. The printer can be used by anyone with an Apple device on the library’s network through built-in AirPrint technology (copies are available for a small fee). What’s more, anyone who has an Android device or Windows laptop can attach their print job to an email and send it to the library printer.

The iPads and new printer are the first of a series of Foundation purchases to update Goodnow’s technology. The Foundation is exploring other technology additions, such as 27-inch iMac computers, Apple TV, and charging carts.

Right now, however, Library Director Esmé Green encourages Sudbury residents to come in and try out the iPads.

“Everyone should step right up and take a test drive!” Green said. “I’ve noticed kids go right up to them and start using them. In fact, my five-year-old daughter found about three things in 30 seconds.”

In contrast, she said, the iPads for adults seem to be used less. “Perhaps people feel hesitant to touch them. But I’d love to see anyone take a test drive!”

Library staff members are trained on the iPads and are available to teach patrons how to use them.

Anyone interested in helping the library purchase new technology can get more information about the Goodnow Library Foundation through its website at http://www.goodnow-foundation.org/