[Michlib-l] IPads vs. AWE computers

[Brenda Dunseth]

Patricia,

We have both in our youth department and it would be difficult for me to choose which device is more popular.  The AWE are wonderful for working with parents or caregivers because the screen is large. They are filled with educational games and often grandparents are more attracted to those computers. The iPads are certainly very popular as well but for different reasons.  We tend to purchase award winning educational apps for the iPads. However, we also have popular apps like Minecraft on them (also educational). The kids enjoy what they find on the iPads, but sometimes I will hear parents say "We have that at home, why don't you play something else?"  For the kids whose parents cannot afford an iPad it is nice for them to have a chance to play some of those games they hear their friends talking about.  We also use the iPads to download electronic books like the short chapter books associated with the Wonder series, Julian's Chapter and Pluto: A Wonder Story. Until those stories were released in print format it gave those kids who don't have access to a device at home a chance to read these short stories.

I guess one thing that might help you decide is to consider how much you or your staff want to have to be involved in updating, downloading, trouble shooting, etc.  The AWE are certainly easier in that sense and you don't need an IT department to keep them running.  The iPads are not complicated but do require more time and energy from staff.   

I think both the iPad and AWE are GREAT.  You can't go wrong with either choice; start with one and purchase the other next time you have some extra funding.  Good luck!

Brenda Dunseth
Youth Services Department Head
Highland Township Public Library

----- Original Message -----
From: "Patricia Braden" <pbraden at tln.lib.mi.us>
To: "michlib-l" <michlib-l at mail2.mcls.org>
Sent: Tuesday, September 29, 2015 2:51:07 PM
Subject: [Michlib-l] IPads vs. AWE computers



Hi everyone, 

We are considering purchasing either iPads or AWE computers in our children's area. Given what you know about library trends and early childhood development, which of these would you recommend and why? 

Thanks so much for your input! 
Patty 



Patty Braden 
Library Director 
Romulus Public Library 
11121 Wayne Road 
Romulus, MI 48174 
(734) 942-7589 
www.romulus.lib.mi.us 

Serving Romulus and Huron Township 




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