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Connect with MARCO and The Library
Where is Marco?
MARCO travels throughout Dauphin County to various locations. Stop by to say “hi!” and leave with some Library swag and a free book!
Upcoming Schedule of Community Events
September 2, 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. - MARCO Sighting
Gratz Auction
September 10, 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. - MARCO Sighting
Hispanic Heritage Festival on Derry Street between 13th and 14th St
September 17, 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.- MARCO Sighting
Hummelstown Art Festival along Main Street in Hummesltown
September 23, 11: 00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. - MARCO Sighting
Gratz Fair at Gratz Fairgrounds
October 1, 1:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. - Visit with Library Staff
Lower Paxton Township Fall Festival at George Park
October 2, 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. - MARCO Sighting
Rotary Club of Colonial Park’s Family Fun Day at The Vineyard at Hershey
October 7, 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. - MARCO Sighting
Gratz Auction
October 8, 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. - Visit with Library Staff
Lykens Fall Festival
What is MARCO?
MARCO is a state-of-the art Exploration Station that moves beyond The Library’s walls to meet children and adults out in our community. His main objective is to expand access to library programs and services through mobile delivery at a variety of locations such as shelters, elder care facilities, child care centers, parks and community events.
The name MARCO was chosen for its inspiring, fun and mission-oriented associations. Based on explorer, Marco Polo, the name evokes “discovery,” “exploration,” “learning” and related ideas. Children will also be familiar with Marco (Polo!) because of the game of “finding” one another in a pool—another instance of search and discovery.
MARCO’s features:
Smart television and digital media player
The monitor can be viewed from outside of the vehicle while participants gather under a retractable awning on waterproof floor mats or at tables and chairs that are also onboard. On-the-go programming and free online e-resources demonstrations, not to mention movie viewing, are a few examples of how this smart technology will be used in the community.
Wifi hotspot and 10 Laptops
MARCO is equipped with laptops and hotspot that can be used at the vehicle or moved into a facility for:
- Taking computer classes to our explorers at senior centers or retirement facilities
- Downloading free Hoopla e-books, e-audiobooks, music and movies
- Engaging with technology based programming
- Connecting people who face challenges visiting library facilities with technology, books and more.
Bubble Machine and Shaky Eggs
Everyone loves a bubble machine! This feature, specifically installed for our youngest crowd, will become a vital part of the storytime programming that will be presented at location such as the Grantville Food Pantry and Hamilton Health Center. Along with the rattling “Shaky Eggs,” it will bring extra joy to children as they participate in a roving storytime program.
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