Access Video(s) from Home!

Streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ saw a huge rise in use during the pandemic, with subscription rates soaring as people were forced to entertain themselves at home. While these platforms can provide thousands of hours of content, they do have one drawback: you have to pay a monthly fee if you don’t want to watch ads.

But are you aware that you can watch ad-free video content from home with your Mid-Continent Public Library Access Pass (Library card)? MCPL offers several free online video resources, including OverDrive Video and Access Video on Demand. Both of these are great sources that specialize in slightly different content.

OverDrive Video is the place to go when you want to watch movies that have been in the theater. Famous titles like Paddington, The Imitation Game, and Django Unchained are ready and waiting to check out. And you don’t even have to visit a branch to get the DVD or Blu-Ray.

If you are looking for an even wider selection of content, check out Access Video on Demand (AVOD). With nearly 42,000 titles to choose from, you can watch productions from BBC, PBS, and HBO (including the award-winning miniseries Chernobyl!). You will also find classic films along with current television series like Call the Midwife.

AVOD also offers a tremendous number of educational and instructive videos that cover everything from technology to business. You can expand your DIY knowledge with cooking, gardening, and home improvement videos. And for those who are looking for a workout, AVOD has the perfect videos to help you strengthen your core and improve your cardio.

But don’t worry—the kids haven’t been left behind! Just for Kids Access Video is a version of AVOD specifically designed for children. Popular series like Berenstain Bears, Arthur, and Dinosaur Train are available alongside classics like Reading Rainbow.

Just for Kids also includes entertaining and educational videos on topics such as animals, science, technology, history, and more, with new titles being consistently added to the platform. All of the content has been carefully selected and evaluated as safe for children, so there is no need to worry about a child clicking on anything inappropriate.

These video services are easily accessible through the Library’s website. And remember, you don’t have to pay anything. As long as you have a Library card, hours upon hours of content are at your fingertips. So, if you’re looking for a free way to watch good shows without ads, OverDrive Video, Access Video on Demand, and Just for Kids Access Video are great options for the entire family.

Pamela M.
Antioch Branch