Each January, most of us make resolutions we hope will result in a better version of ourselves.  Generally, eating less and exercising more top the list.  For those of you who may want to save money, volunteer, get smarter, meet new people, and read more, don’t forget about the public library.  We can help you accomplish all these things and probably a few you never thought of.

First things first, you need a library card.  If you have one, great!  If you think you have one, but haven’t used it or can’t find it, that’s okay.  Just call the Library (at 634-2464 in Jefferson City or 897-2957 in Linn) and the MRRL staff will check to see if you are still in the system.  If you’re not, the staff will walk you through what you need to do if your card has expired or isn’t in the system.  If you’ve never had a Library card or at least not as an adult, here’s your opportunity.  You can either stop by one of our facilities (including the bookmobile), bring your current photo ID and proof of your current residence and we will have you ready to go in mere minutes.  For those of you who do everything online, we’ve got you covered.  You can apply for a card online anytime.  We will send you a card in the mail, and you can access any of our digital offerings immediately.  When you do make it into the Library to check something out, we will ask to see your ID. Easy, right?

You have a card, now, what?  Here are some possibilities:

1. Borrow an eBook, audiobook, music, and more!

The Library has two ways to check out digital materials.  Ebooks, comics, audiobooks, movies, magazines, and music care available whenever and wherever you like.  First, you will need to download one or two free apps; Libby for Overdrive (ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines) or Hoopla for our streaming service, (same as above, plus comics, movies, tv series, and music). Gain access to thousands of items for FREE with your library card!

2. Gain a Career Skill or Prep for a Test

LinkedIn Learning includes thousands of professional courses taught by experts in fields such as web development, education, media production, and business.  Learning Express can help you improve your score on academic tests and professional certification exams. Learning Express contains a comprehensive selection of interactive online tutorials, practice tests, articles, e-Books, and high-stakes test preparation.

3.  Get out of your house (you don’t actually need a card to attend our programs, but having one just makes you cooler)

The Library has programs for all ages.  Storytimes, book clubs, teen nights, lectures, author visits, yoga, music concerts, to name just a few ----  there’s really something for everyone.  Pick up our program calendars at the Library or view it online.  We generally have multiple programs each day.  Attending a program is a great way to learn something new, meet people, and make connections. 

4.  Get involved

For the volunteer minded who would like to help the Library, we have a Friends group and a Foundation.   The MRRL Friends help staff programs in Cole County, promote the Library at festivals, and work the annual book sale in St. Martins. Friends of Osage County (FOCL) promote and support the Osage County Branch in a variety of ways, including contributions of new materials, shelving, furniture and programming services, as well as organizing the annual book sale in Linn.  The Library Foundation helps raise extra funds for special programs, projects, and equipment over and above our Library’s operational budget.  All are great ways to support the Library.  Whether you have a little time or a lot of time, there is a place for you here!