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Newmarket library project helps seniors digitize photos, slides, film

'Seniors will learn to use cutting-edge devices to help them select, organize and produce a digital record of their family history,' co-ordinator says
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Vineeta Jacob, the Newmarket Public Library’s technology services co-ordinator, is shown with the technology being used to help seniors digitize vintage photos, films and more.

Newmarket Library is offering new programs to help seniors aged 55 and over digitize their cherished memories.

Several different programs will teach seniors how to use the latest technology available for converting, digitizing and scanning photos, slides, Super 8 films and more, according to library news release.

“We are excited to offer seniors this opportunity to discover our new Pixel Project equipment to help preserve their vintage family photos and films,” said library CEO Tracy Munusami. “The digital versions they’ll create will be more accessible for themselves and future generations.”

The new devices, now part of the library’s Maker Hub, were funded by the Ontario government’s Seniors Community Grant Program, which supports projects aimed at helping older adults stay healthy, active and socially connected.

Vineeta Jacob, technology services co-ordinator, said the programs being offered essentially combine learning technology with genealogical endeavours.

“Seniors will learn to use cutting-edge devices to help them select, organize and produce a digital record of their family history,” she said.

The hands-on programs will take place at both Newmarket Library and Newmarket Seniors Meeting Place. Several are planned for this fall, with more to follow next year. Space is limited to 10 participants per program. Once people are shown how to use the devices, they can then book one-on-one sessions to work on personal projects with guidance and assistance from staff in the library’s Maker Hub.

Upcoming programs are:

Converting slides and films to digital

Participants will learn how to convert their vintage slides and films using a Kodak slide and film scanner.

Friday, Oct. 4, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Newmarket Library’s Board Room Hall 6
Register at bit.ly/3XnLkP8

Tuesday, Oct. 22, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Newmarket Seniors Meeting Place
Register at bit.ly/3WXJyCY

Converting photos to digital

Participants learn to organize, scan, edit and digitize photos with a Epson FastFoto 680W scanner.

Friday, Nov. 8, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Newmarket Library’s Board Room Hall 6
Register at bit.ly/3Z2XyOk

Tuesday, Nov. 19, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Newmarket Seniors Meeting Place
Register at bit.ly/3Z24R92

From digital to tangible: sublimation printing

Using a sublimation printer, participants will learn how to transfer their digital photos onto keychains, coasters, or mugs to create unique keepsakes.
Friday, Dec. 6, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Newmarket Library’s Board Room
Register at bit.ly/4cNOQqx

Anyone interested in more information on Pixel Project programs can contact 905-953-5110, ext. 4735, or email [email protected].