Several times a week, people come into the library looking for a Chilton’s manual to help them while they are working on their cars. There are so many different makes, models and years of cars, so it can be difficult to find the exact manual you need at the library when you need it. Luckily you are now able to access that information online, either at the library or from the convenience of your own home, instantly.
My daughter’s car broke down this week. This made me realize that, like my husband, there are quite a few do-it yourself car repair people out there. I see either you or your significant others coming in to find just the right auto repair manual needed for your particular situation.
Did you know that you have this information available to you in your home 24/7? That's right!
We all have car problems, sooner or later. When those problems pop up, it’s always nice to have the resources to fix them. If you’re the hands on type of person, we offer three automotive databases to help you in your times of need.
If your vehicle lights come on when you use the windshield wiper switch, your Mid-Continent Public Library branch has several computer databases that can help. We have databases from both Mitchell and Chilton. These have detailed instructions, pictures, and diagrams for working on just about any facet of your car or truck.
Baffled by brakes? Mad at your muffler? Brave enough to try a car repair yourself? Then, you’ll want to check out our Automotive and Small Engines Online Research Databases. There are several Automotive Databases to choose from, including Auto Repair Reference Center, ChiltonLibrary.com, and Mitchell 1 ProDemand.
When the transmission went out on my husband’s Ford Ranger, we didn’t know what to do. The shop wanted nearly $2000 and we just could not afford it at the time, besides the fact that the truck was only worth about $1400. My husband was able to find a place that would fix the transmission for $300 if he could bring them just the transmission. When he told me about this situation, I told him he should check the databases through mymcpl.org.
Are you trying to find the retail value of your used car or truck?
The library's Reference Section has the most current edition of N.A.D.A. Official Used Car Guide. This publication references the values for vehicles (passenger cars and light duty trucks) from 1991 through 2010.
It’s a beautiful fall Sunday afternoon. The Chiefs just won yet again, and you are on top of the world, feeling like you can do anything. You look outside the window, and you get a brilliant idea! You decide you are going to do some repairs on your car, and save the cost of having a maintenance garage do it.
When you think auto repair, libraries may not be the first thing that comes to your mind. But, it should be the first place you look if you’re a do-it-yourself mechanic. When my truck breaks down, I used to run to the auto parts store and buy manuals. But now, I run to the Library. The Mid-Continent Public Library has lots of auto and truck repair manuals. If your vehicle’s repair manual is not at your local Library, just ask for help. The Library Clerk at the front desk can order it in for you. It will arrive at your Branch in just a few days.
It’s almost time for my favorite show of the year, The Auto Show at Bartle Hall in downtown Kansas City. For anyone who enjoys seeing all the new cars & trucks, this is a don’t miss event. It runs from March 2nd – March 6th, 2011. Several of the brands I really like have made substantial upgrades to their models this year, and I’m anxious to see the changes.
