If I were asked to choose a single word that really demonstrates the power and capabilities of libraries, the word “access” would be on the short list.
Public libraries provide access to reading material, digital material, games, computers and tablets, concerts, speakers and so much more. This access is available to everyone, with no financial restrictions, no convenience fees, no demographic requirements.
In fact, it is a priority that all groups are represented in decisions we make on accessing our services.
We have always been in the access business, but in recent years, Bartholomew County Public Library has been making strides in decreasing barriers to that access. It is one thing to offer something, but it is important to ask if that something can be offered in a new or more efficient manner.
You might recall that around this time last year, our library eliminated all fines for overdue items. This was done partly to eliminate stigma and bring back patrons who may not have used the library because of past fees, to give them their access back.
Another barrier to library access might be transportation. In addition to the stops of the library Bookmobile to each township in Bartholomew County, we have ramped up visits to patrons who have difficulty traveling to the library, and we are frequently visiting community centers. Any number of library services are provided at these visits, including checking out books, personalized help with technology, history help and introducing library digital services, such as downloadable e-books and audiobooks, digital magazines and online databases.
It is with those digital services in mind that I introduce our newest initiative to make it easier to access library materials. For the first time ever, instantly apply online to get a digital access card for the library’s collection of downloadable materials. This includes e-books, audiobooks, digital magazines and music.
Digital access cards also work with library databases for language learning, genealogy research, online courses, financial information and more. Simply go to our website at mybcpl.org and click “Your Account” at the top of the page to find the digital access card application. Complete the information and a card number will be emailed, and it is immediately active.
We also continue to offer “pre-loaded” digital access cards that we can hand out to your class or community group that allow the same immediate access to online resources. Our complete list of online resources is available at mybcpl.org/resources.
The digital access card does not allow checkouts of items in the library building. Because the items on our shelves could become damaged or lost, we do have a longer application that we need to have on file for our patrons to be able to check out these items.
Please visit any library service desk or contact us at 812-379-1255 for information on applying for a full access library card. As always, don’t hesitate to ask us questions about digital resources, visiting your group or class, or how we can better deliver access to library services.
Tyler Munn is the reference supervisor at Bartholomew County Public Library. He can be reached at [email protected].
