MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- The station library at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, held an open house Jan. 16, 2016 welcoming patrons to explore improvements made over the past months.
The library closed its doors Nov. 20, 2015 until Jan. 13, 2016 to receive a makeover consisting of new paint, carpets and shelving as well as new education tools creating opportunities for adults and children alike.
“Our main goal with the improvements is to attract new people to the library and promote our services that many may not know about,” said Phoenix Wilkins, library technician at the station library. “It’s not just a place to get books, but a place to create and innovate new things that they wouldn’t be able to on their own.”
New learning tools include a 3-D printer that helps bring creations to life, a smart board, go pro and TV in the family conference room.
“I think the new improvements are amazing,” said Sarah Thompson, college student and event participant. “The shelves are at my level so I can see and reach all the books and everything is so clean and bright. I usually come to the library every week, but now I will probably come more often.”
The open house provided an opportunity for families to explore the new sections, books and activities now available at the library. Story time attracted toddlers to the kiddie corner, the 3-D printer drew in teachers and parents, and robot cars entertained the crowd.
Wilkins invites everyone to enjoy the library’s services and said it’s a great way to escape for a while or learn something new and meet new people.