Library Outreach

As I meet you all in conversation about our shared values, I will relay fascinating stories about what other libraries are doing to improve lives in their community. Santa Ana California describes one of their major projects this way. I found it incredibly inspiring and wanted to share it with you.

Seeds to Tree Digital Media/Technology Academy - The Library is in the third year of an annually awarded Workforce Investment Grant for Youth. In partnership with the Rancho Santiago Community College District Corporate Training Institute, the Library has developed a free apprenticeship program comprised of training and paid work-experience internships for 20 at-risk youth ages 16-21 in the fields of digital media technology. Participants receive introductory and intermediate level training/ certifications in a number of digital skills, including web design, graphic design, digital music production, video production, script writing and marketing.

Their in-class instruction is balanced by paid work experience producing videos, web designs, etc., for the Library and other city agencies, nonprofits and businesses. In addition, they receive tutoring and mentoring, workshops in life and educational skills, and assistance from a social worker as needed. Their productions are often broadcast on the City’s government channel, which is operated and programmed by the Library. For the last two years, the students have written, produced and edited videos that won first place in California State Library state-wide contests. Many have found employment through referrals from the program and others moved on to higher education.