Pumpkin spice lattes.
Sweater weather.
Longer-than-average beards (if you’re among those eschewing shaving, that is).
Families, friends and food.
November is one of my favorite months, because it is a time when we remember the things we are most thankful for, and celebrate them. It’s also my favorite time to visit the library — the crisp air and falling leaves practically demand cozying up with a good book or DVD. With the Thanksgiving holiday upon us this week, here are a few things to be thankful for when visiting the library:
High checkout limits — Did you know that you can check out up to 50 items at a time? As many as 20 of those items can be DVDs. Up to two items can be tablets or other e-devices. And that’s not even counting any of the digital materials the library offers!
No late fees — In case you haven’t heard, we’ve stopped collecting late fees at the library. That’s right, no more overdue fines! Unless you’ve lost or damaged an item, we won’t charge you for anything. Read freely, friends!
Digital downloads — For those of you who prefer to enjoy stories and movies on your favorite devices (or who, like me, prefer to stay on the couch with a blanket when it’s cold), the library offers a variety of options for downloading e-books, audiobooks, movies and music directly to your collection. E-books and audiobooks can be accessed directly from the library catalog, or through the Overdrive or Libby apps on your phone or tablet. For movies and music, I recommend checking out what Hoopla has to offer. Each of these resources can be accessed from our website. All you need to use them is a library card. (If you are interested in learning more about how to use any of these resources, or if you want to apply for a library card, please call or stop by the library and we would be happy to help).
Great programs — Have you checked out the library’s events calendar lately? We always have something going on, whether it’s Dungeons and Dragons for teens (Nov. 29) or Curious George storytime (Nov. 30). This month, we’ve added several new programs for 9- to 12-year-old “tweens,” including Cursive Club, Word Nerds and an improv club called Please Clap! Adults can enjoy library programs too, ranging from guest speakers to book clubs to craft nights (our next one is Nov. 29). Whether you are 6 or 106, the library’s got something for you to do.
Free classes (and other online resources) — Have you heard about Gale Courses yet? Through the library, you are eligible to take free online classes on topics ranging from business administration to parenting, and all kinds of things in between! Those who complete a six-week course will receive a certificate, which can then be showcased on a résumé or job application. The next round of Gale courses starts on Dec. 12.
Online professional and learning resources — The library also offers a variety, including databases like Science in Context, tools such as Mango Languages (for learning to speak a new language), and historical/genealogical resources including Ancestry Library Edition and Newspapers.com. This is just a small sampling of what the library has to offer – be sure to check out more on the library website by clicking on the icon marked “Resources.”
Space for you — Need to hold a meeting? Or just get out of the house? The library is full of places for you to spend time, whether you need a large room for a presentation or a cozy chair to read in. We have play areas to occupy your toddler, and meeting rooms to host potential business partners. Looking for quiet study space? Try one of the study carrels on the mezzanine level, or the new seating area near the reference desk. All are welcome here.
What are you most thankful for in November? Stop by and tell us. We’d love to hear from you.
