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Shaw library undergoes technological renovation

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Christopher Maldonado
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  The McElveen Information and Learning Center at Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, received technological upgrades Aug. 8.

With these upgrades, the McElveen staff intends to enhance the morale of its visitors and provide a means for Airmen to recover from a long day of work.

“The purpose of all the equipment we have received is to improve the libraries service to our patrons,” said Michael Herman, 20th Force Support Squadron library director. “Each has specific purposes that will expand what we can offer to Airmen, dependents and retirees that use the facility.”

The upgrades consist of two 3-D printers, a 10-port charging station and a gaming center for Team Shaw members.

The printers will serve as an educational and instructional outlet for anyone trying to learn the science behind 3-D printing. The charging station will allow visitors to safely lock and charge their electronics while in the library and the gaming center consisting of video game consoles and monitors will be used for leisure as well as gaming competitions in the future.

Each item is intended to give Team Shaw members a means to learn about new technology, as well as interact with others who share similar hobbies.

“We are always working on new ways to enhance our user experience at the library,” said Herman. “Bringing several different resources online at once is a challenge and opportunity at the same time. Being able to learn along with our patrons is a win–win situation.”

For the Airmen trying to learn about these new pieces of equipment the library is scheduled to host a series of classes and workshops to help them get accustomed to the new technology.

“We want to be able to show the Airmen that after a long day you don’t have to isolate yourself from others,” said Juan Leon, 20th FSS data automation assistant. “Being able to give back to them and help increase their morale is what we are really trying to take away from these advancements.”

By providing Airmen the opportunity to network and interact in a calm, technologically improved environment, the McElveen staff hopes to improve the morale and overall well-being of Team Shaw members.

For more information contact the McElveen Information and Learning Center at 895-4518.