Just outside of the Indiana Room, we arrive in the Media Commons. This is a very versatile area which serves many purposes. This room is frequently used as a reading and study area. It is in close proximity to the newspaper and magazine area.
The large glass wall in this area provides a favorite place for patrons to just sit and contemplate. The wall looks out into the library’s arboretum (which will likely appear in a future blog when the weather is warmer). Note the art work lining this wall. There is art of all kinds throughout the library. We saw some examples of this already in a previous post about the Indiana Room.
The library is not far away from Lake Manitou in Rochester, Indiana so you will notice that there is a wetlands wildlife theme running throughout the library. Even the carpet represents wildlife habitats. There are several nature preserves located in the vicinity. You will also see various live plants throughout the library and the majority of furniture is even crafted out of natural materials.
You may have noticed the TV in this area. Libraries are changing considerably and are often a place just to hang out. This TV is usually muted, but set up for closed caption. Patrons can check out the latest news and weather among other things. The closed caption not only helps hearing impaired patrons, but also is considerate of patrons who may be reading or studying. Below the TV is a small shelf holding some games.
This area also is a place where patrons can socialize with each other. Many times they will play games. Gaming is becoming a part of regular programming at many libraries, including this one. Many patrons will bring games in and the library also owns several games that patrons can use. In this area, it is usually some sort of board game. There are a few multipurpose tables used from anything from reading and research to game playing and tech activities.
Fulton County Public Library (FCPL) offers two free tech classes a week and usually meets in this area at the Rochester branch. Taught by Tweak Turtle 
and Twain Turkey, 
the tech classes offered at FCPL are as varied as the people taking them. Tech classes offer instruction and support for patrons who are users of laptops, tablets, kindles and other e-readers, smart phones, digital cameras, geocaches, gps, and various other devices. (If it’s technical, Tweak and Twain can probably help!) In addition to using the actual devices, they can also instruct on how to use a limitless array of software. A few examples (but by no means a complete list) include Excel, Email, Photoshop, and Microsoft products.
The furniture in the Media Commons area is versatile and easy to move, providing large floor space area when needed. Often staff meetings are held in this area. The possibilities of this space are endless. Many spontaneous meetings occur here. Homeschoolers and various other groups frequent this area.
Just some more comfortable seating in this picture.
Bridging the gap between the Media Commons and the stacks, we find these study carols. These are also a popular destination for many patrons. Please note the art work above the back wall which continues the lake environment theme.
I have this odd urge to take my books and read at Lake Manitou!
Dewey Hop 