It’s the Little Things

Working in a Library has its advantages. Libraries are always on the cusp of new and exciting ways to provide services and enhance your experience.

After a thought-provoking encounter with a patron who was simply looking for the water fountain, I started thinking about the types of questions we get asked daily. Surprisingly, many of them have little to do with books or “traditional” Library services.

Sometimes, we forget that even the smallest moments can have a meaningful impact on someone's day. Here are just a few of the questions and observations we hear regularly:

• Where are the newspapers?
• Do you have a water fountain?
• Where is your restroom?
• Do you have a changing room for my baby?
• Are study rooms available?
• I didn’t know you had free Wi-Fi access in the parking lot!
• Can I make copies here?
• Can I print something from my phone?
• I heard on the news that the Library helps with voter registration. Is that true?
• Can I return my books in the outdoor drop box?
• Do you have a public-use shredder?
• Does your Library offer notary services?
• I’m a small-business owner—can you help me?
• Do I have to go to the Midwest Genealogy Center to access genealogy resources?
• Can you help me with Libby?
• Is there a quiet room for me and my baby?
• I remember storytimes from when I was a kid. Do you still offer them?
• I’d love to connect with others. Do you have book clubs?
• Can I come in to warm up or get out of the elements?

The best part? The answer to almost all of these questions is yes! While not every branch has a notary, some may have wellness rooms or study spaces. No matter the request, we do our best to meet the needs of our community.

Beyond these everyday services, we also offer mission-enhancing resources like Square One Small Business Support and the Midwest Genealogy Center, among others.

These seemingly small things may feel mundane, but they play a crucial role in making the Library a welcoming and resourceful place for all.

My hope is that in addition to the exciting services, events, and databases Mid-Continent Public Library continues to add, we will always provide you with quality service, access to the information you need—whether digitally, in print, or visually—and moments of connection that enhance your Library experience.

Check out these and more of our services here, and may the Library continue to bring you small joys.

Andrew E.
Red Bridge Branch