Library branches welcome document scanners

Library patrons of four branches of the Vermilion Parish Library System are now enjoying the use of recently installed Desktop Wireless Document Scanners which were purchased from funds provided by the Vermilion Library Foundation. In addition to the scanners, the Foundation also provided funds for the purchase of two benches permanently installed in front of the Kaplan Branch Library.

Increased requests from Library patrons at the Maurice, Erath, Kaplan, and Gueydan branches have alerted the staff to the need for the new equipment. Papers, resumes, and research items can now be scanned on the new document scanners and downloaded onto a flash drive at no charge for the service. Flash drives, if needed, are available for purchase at the Library for $5.00.

Kaplan community members have often sat in their vehicles in the parking lot in front of the Library, during and after hours, to access the Library’s free Wi-Fi system. Two new benches have been installed in front of the Kaplan library to provide patrons with an outdoor location from which they can utilize the electronic system. Moreover, some people simply like to sit outside on these beautiful benches to read.

The Vermilion Parish Library System is funded by a property millage which covers operational as well as equipment, supplies and maintenance expenses. The Vermilion Library Foundation was established as a not-for-profit charitable organization with the stated purpose of supporting and enhancing the Vermilion Parish Library System. This includes the raising of funds to be provided to the Library System for the purchase of items not otherwise included in the System’s annual budget. The Director of the Vermilion Parish Library, with the assistance of the Branch Managers, compiles a list of items, such as the scanners and benches, which are viewed as desired but are not included within the budget.

The Vermilion Library Foundation has raised funds from its membership drive, donations, semi-annual book sales, and cookbook sales. The Vermilion Library Foundation Board designated funds, at the May Board Meeting, for the purchase of the four scanners and the two benches.

“This is hopefully just the beginning,” said Vermilion Library Foundation President Thomas B. Thompson. “With an ever increasing membership and book sales, we plan to continue providing funds for the purchase of the items needed by the six branch libraries of the Vermilion Library System.”