New Year, the Library has got you!

It’s a New Year—Time for New Goals!

The start of a new year is the perfect time to hold ourselves accountable for our resolutions, right? Whether your goal is something you can achieve in a month or it takes the entire year, the Library is here to help you every step of the way. No matter your age or situation, there’s a resource for you.

How, you ask? Your Library card is the key to a world of possibilities.

Here are some examples of how the Library can help you achieve your goals:

1. “I want to become more self-sufficient and work on my car myself.”

Check out free resources like Mitchell1 Pro and Chilton Library. They’ll provide step-by-step guidance and save you a ton of money on repairs.

2. “I want to connect more with my family and heritage.”

Visit the Midwest Genealogy Center or explore our vast collection of genealogy resources, including Ancestry.com. Dive into your family history and make meaningful connections with your roots.

3. “I want to cook healthier meals or provide more home-cooked food for my household.”

Our cookbook collection is massive, featuring titles on keto, air fryer, gluten-free, and dairy-free recipes. Explore food-based programming at the Culinary Kitchens or select library branches. Don’t miss the free cooking tutorials on Access Video on Demand!

4. “I want to be more budget-conscious this year.”

The Library is a goldmine for saving money. Use our Library Value Calculator to see how much you can save by borrowing items instead of buying them. Before making any purchases, consult Consumer Reports for reliable reviews and price comparisons.

5. “I want to get in shape and stay healthy.”

While we don’t offer weightlifting classes, we offer yoga and other fitness programs for all ages. Through Universal Class, you can take a free, self-paced certification class in weight training, lifetime wellness, or aromatherapy. Some branches even offer Zumba Exhilarate kits for checkout, complete with toning sticks.

6. “I want to go back to school, advance my career, or start my own business.”

Explore Square One for entrepreneurship classes, career assistance, and tools to enhance your professional profile. I personally recommend LinkedIn Learning, which integrates seamlessly with Indeed.com for job hunting. For certification test prep, head to LearningExpress Library for all the resources you need.

No matter your goals for 2025, the Library can help you achieve them. Let’s make 2025 your best year yet—start today with your Library card!

Andrew E.
Red Bridge Branch