Five Things You Didn't Know About Your Library

Five Things You Didn't Know About Your Library

What’s the first thing you think of when we say “library”? Our best guess is books, getting shushed, and maybe cats. But the library is so much more! Here are five things you didn’t know (but should!) about your library:

eBooks and Audiobooks

Ditch that Audible subscription, and listen to your audiobooks for free with your library card! We have two different apps that offer both eBooks and audiobooks.  So, what’s the difference?

Libby/Overdrive offers a robust collection of eBooks and audiobooks. Each title has a limited number of copies available, so you may have to place your favorite title on hold.

Hoopla offers eBooks, audiobooks, and even movies and music. Each patron has 6 checkouts per month, and there is no waiting. (This service is only available to patrons who live in Cole or Osage County.)

Genealogy/Family History

Have you ever wanted to learn more about your family history, but don’t want to pay the expensive membership fees of Ancestry.com? You can access Ancestry.com for free (inside the library)! Not sure where to start? We offer an Ancestry.com class every Wednesday, and a beginner Ancestry.com class twice a month. We also offer Heritage Quest Online, FamilySearch, Find A Grave, Missouri Digital Heritage, and Chronicling America on our website.

Science Kits

The MRRL Science Kits are STEAM-based (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) kits of materials on a variety of subjects. They help elementary age students learn anything from coding to human anatomy to physics. Each kit contains an array of materials including books, DVDs, and games. They can be checked out for 3 weeks and provide an awesome resource for any kid who is trying to learn a new skill, or just wants to check out a new activity!

Webinars/Online Learning

Do you want to learn a new skill? Trying to tackle a program? You can take advantage of free online trainings through the Library!

Learn how to create and edit audio and music files, create character animation, understand data analysis, create videos, brush up on your customer service skills, and so much more!

Are you prepping for an upcoming test or certification? Take practice tests for free with your library card! Practice tests are offered for many certifications including:

  • Dental Assistant
  • Cosmetology
  • EMT
  • Plumbing
  • Commercial Driver's License
  • Nursing
  • Social Work
  • Police
  • Firefighters

Programming

The Library hosts 50-60 programs every month, for all ages! Of course we have the story times and book clubs you would expect, but we also have wine tastings, photography discussions, cooking programs, virtual reality events, craft programs, plays and musicals, and more! We are literally one of the best spots in town to find entertainment...and best of all, it doesn't cost anything!

These are only a few of the amazing resources available at your public library! Stop in today to find out even more!