In a time when education is increasingly expensive, public libraries, often called ‘the people’s university’, provide information and educational opportunities at no cost for all people, regardless of their age, skill level or socio-economic status. The American Library Association’s ‘Let’s Talk about It’ program is a wonderful example of a scholar-facilitated learning opportunity in public libraries. In this program, some nationally known scholars select a common series of books and help the public explore the theme of these books through the lens of humanity, particularly their relations to other works of literature and philosophical thoughts. In addition, it is public libraries that present classes and discussion programs, and with the help of new media, some libraries even provide online continuing education courses to the public.

词汇 

交流技能 communication skills

丰富知识 enrich knowledge   

展示能力 demonstrate one’s ability   

独立思考 think independently   

建立自信 build up self-confidence   

实现潜在能力 achieve/fulfill potentials   

提高社会意识 raise social awareness   

职业准备 career preparation