Staten Island Student -- And New York Public Library "Computer Page" -- Wins Library Logo Design Contest

A Staten Island student, who works at The New York Public Library's Richmondtown Branch five days a week as a "computer page," has won a Library logo design contest. On Friday, July 14, at 11 a.m., the accomplishments of Stephen Raio will be celebrated at the Richmondtown Branch Library, 200 Clarke Avenue, where he helps children develop their computer skills. Not only is Mr. Raio a computer page par excellence, but he is also the winner of a contest among his peers to create a "logo" that could be incorporated into materials identifying and explaining the Library’s computer page program.

Mr. Raio, who has worked at the Richmondtown Branch for the past four years, shows children as young as three years old how to use a mouse and how to navigate through a computer program. "What's most rewarding about this job is seeing how fast the children catch on and how much fun they have." In addition, he says, he has gained valuable work experience. "If you love to work with children, or if you’re interested in computers, or if you want to be a teacher, this is a great job."

The Library's computer page program, which began in 1985 with five computers and five pages, employs New York City students to help library patrons -- especially those new to computer technology and electronic resources -- in the use of the Library's computers.  Working in tandem with the Library's full-time staff, computer pages specialize in demystifying the unfamiliar and translate technical concepts into language for all skill levels.  And through the program, young adults are offered a steady income and valuable work experience with a flexible schedule to accommodate school hours.  Today, there are 210 computer pages throughout all 85 branch libraries of The New York Public Library.

Mr Raio's winning design appears on a button, or badge, to be worn by all computer pages to help identify them to the public, and on a bookmark that encourages other students to enroll in the program.

The New York Public Library Computer Page Program is supported by the City of New York, J.P. Morgan, Deutsche Bank, The New York Community Trust, The Pinkerton Foundation, William A. Koshland Fund, May and Samuel Rudin Family Foundation, Inc., and the estate of Julia Schachat.

(Please note: The event on July 14 is not open to the public.)
 

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thoerenz: pro: 07-10-00
TH: pro: 07-10-00