12+ Gifts of the Library Card

As we dive into the winter holiday season, there are many things to celebrate, explore, learn, grow, love, and create. The lasting memories of the season can be yours all year long with your own Library card.

Here are 12 free gifts that the Library can share with you:

1. Are you a grown-up with kids? Join us at storytimes, call in for Dial-A-Story, or check out one of the Grow A Reader to Go Storytime Kits to meet all of your early literacy needs.
2. Speaking of little ones, get your toddler or infant signed up for the free initiative 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten, so they are ready to go for school.  
3. Do you want to read eBooks or listen to audiobooks for free? Download Libby by OverDrive for your phone, kindle, or home computer and check out items from the Library.
4. Is family history or genealogy one of your favorite things? Check out the Midwest Genealogy Center for all of these needs. Several of their classes are available online, as well as at branch locations, and most databases are accessible from home. Check out a Tell Me a Story kit to record your own family or community history.
5. Do you want to start a business but don’t know how? Or do you already have a business and want to expand? Square One Small Business Services can help you out. Schedule your own one-on-one session with a business specialist for assistance.
6. Are you a job seeker? Find career resources through Square One too. They can give you tools you need to become versed in online applications, resumes, and successful interviews.
7. Do you want to become a writer or orator? Do you enjoy storytelling? Visit The Story Center and join in the fun! You can sign up for online and in-person classes to achieve the Storytelling Certification for oral or written storytelling.
8. Would you like to join a book group? Explore the Library’s many book groups, including in-person and virtual options. MCPL also offers family, kid, tween, and teen groups, as well as some groups that are “no book” book groups! Do you want to start your own book group? Contact your local branch for more information.
9. Are you wishing you were more tech savvy? The Library can help you out with this. From beginner technology classes offered in person and online, to free online learning through resources like Gale Courses and Universal Class, the Library will assist you in achieving your technological aspirations. MCPL branches also have public computers, copy machines, fax machines, and laptops for checkout.
10. Do you need more technology on the go? Check out remote printing or download the free PrinterOn app, put on hold and check out a Chromebook To Go or Wi-Fi To Go hotspot, and remember that all of our branches have free Wi-Fi in the parking lots. 
11. Are you looking for free fun things to do with your friends, family, children, or teenagers? Check out MCPL’s events page or get your own downloadable Program Guide for all of the Library happenings.

There is so much your Library can offer you! Be sure to check out these resources and services and visit your local branch. And remember that you can sign up for a Library card online or in person.

Let the Library fulfill all of your holiday wishes and remember that it is always free to read.

Andrew E.
Red Bridge Branch