Community Corner

Library to Add 'Leap' Technology to Computer Offerings

Emma S. Clark Memorial Library on Monday will unveil a new addition to its lineup of new technology for patrons to learn.

The device, known as "Leap" technology, is an attachment that allows a computer user to navigate software with their hands in the air rather than with a keyboard or mouse.

Bob Johnson, manager of information and technology services at the library, said he believes the Leap technology is the next step in the evolution of user interfaces such as the keyboard and mouse. He compared the experience to how you might see computers being used in the movie "Minority Report."

"It's all about training yourself to interact with new technology," Johnson said. "We're going to put it out there for the patrons and see how they'd like to use it."

In a demonstration for Patch on Tuesday, Johnson showed off some children's games and discussed the ways a disabled person may be able to use the technology if he or she is unable to use a keyboard.

Expect to find the Leap device in the same area as the library's "Tech Touch" program, in which patrons can play with and take classes on devices such as the iPad, iPod, Nook, Kindle, and more.

The Leap device, which Johnson said was released last week, retails for around $80 at stores such as Best Buy.

"If we have the opportunity to bring the latest and greatest technology to the patrons, we'll do it," he said.


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