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Health & Fitness

PA Forward Helps Libraries, Pennsylvanians Succeed

PA Forward is a new initiative for Pennsylvania libraries.

PA Forward is a new initiative of the Pennsylvania Library Association to spread the word about libraries! PA Forward aims to make sure libraries have what they need to prepare Pennsylvanians to compete successfully in the Information Age and to live healthy, productive lives.

According the PA Forward web site, "Libraries are no longer just buildings that house books. Today's libraries are agile institutions serving real- life needs." Libraries in the Commonwealth are challenged to focus programming on five (5) literacies to power progress and elevate the quality of life. These five (5) literacies are: Basic Literacy, Information Literacy, Civic and Social Literacies, Health Literacies and Financial Literacy.

PA Forward is partnering with public and private institutions to assist libraries in resource sharing; strengthening state-supported library services; providing more databases at lower costs and to "raise the profile and importance of libraries and librarians.

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At the Hellertown Area Library, we have begun to embrace several of these literacies. The creation of a "Banned Books Club" gives rise to discussion on "forbidden" topics and creates social interaction spanning several generations. The "Get Bookin" 5 K race stressed the importance the role the library plays in the Health Literacy of the community. One-on-one computer classes raise awareness of Information Literacy.

PA Forward will help Pennsylvanians succeed! To learn about this exciting initiative, stop by the Library or visit www.paforward.org.

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