I know it seems weird since we didn't have a winter, but it's already time to start spring cleaning. My project for the next couple months is cleaning out my book collection. I've been looking forward to and totally dreading this. Over the years, I've amassed an entire room full of printed books, comics, dozens of binders of articles from grad school, magazines, and who knows what else. Considering I haven't read some of these items in a decade, I think it's time they found new homes.
Did you know that in addition to our print copies of newspapers here at MCPL, we also have several archives online that you can access? Just check under the Newspapers section of our Research Databases! There you will find digital copies of every Kansas City Star article from 1991 through today.
I don't claim to know much about cars, but I am becoming more familiar with MCPL’s repair databases. A few months ago, my significant other was replacing the transmission of a ’94 Ford Ranger. MCPL owns quite a number of repair manuals, and I was able to find a Chilton's Manual of our make and model for him. But anyone who has ever used Chilton’s before knows they are only helpful to a point.
I have noticed that a lot of people are checking out books on home improvement, decorating, and gardening. Perhaps, it is due to the fact that we have had such a mild winter and people are already overcome with Spring Fever. We all get tired of looking at the same color on the walls, the same cracks in the flooring, and the shrubs that look pathetic no matter what you do to them.
Novelist Plus is one of MCPL’s many Research Databases. It is a great site for readers. I have used many of the features, and can say with certainty that you will find NoveList Plus useful for many reasons. To take full advantage of NoveList Plus, take the time to set up an account. All you need to do to set up an account is create a username and password.
A couple weeks ago, I attended a workshop to teach me about Gale Virtual Reference Library. It's a database offered through MCPL.
First, it's very pretty looking and very easy to navigate—a feature anyone doing research or just looking up a subject will appreciate. There is also a vast quantity of interesting subjects to explore, and it's a very helpful for those looking for quick reference information and students doing research papers. Last week, I had the opportunity to use it just as that—a student!
Are you trying to write a research paper or a blog? Facts on File Writer’s Reference Center is the perfect database to help you with any type of writing. This site is loaded with outstanding information.
Growing up in USSR, our kitchen was wallpapered with newspaper – a sign of poverty. Cocking my six-year-old head, I would pick out the prettiest shapes, asking, "What is this letter?" I learned how to read from the writing on the wall. Picture books were a luxury, so when I finally went to school, I "swallowed" my school books. Then, I discovered a town library – a musty dark room, crowded with old books, which could be checked for a week – a far cry from the library today.
Novelist Plus is one of MCPL’s many 
