There’s More to the Story!

National Library Week is April 23–29, and this year’s theme is “There’s More to the Story,” a nod to the vast array of services that libraries provide besides just books. This is certainly the case at Mid-Continent Public Library, where the resources, services, and programs provided both online and in person stretch well beyond what most people imagine when they think of a library!

From early literacy-focused storytimes and educational tools for caregivers, to technology and career support for job seekers, MCPL staff make it their mission to provide residents with the support they need to reach their goals—whatever those might be! Here are a few innovative Library services you might be less familiar with:

• Technology To Go – Library customers can check out Chromebooks and Wi-Fi hotspots so they can have computer and internet access where and when they need it.
   
• Library-By-Mail – For customers who are unable to visit their local MCPL branch, the Library offers this free service that delivers books and other materials directly to their doorsteps. Popular with many elderly residents, Library-By-Mail utilizes the U.S. Postal Service to send items that customers have selected themselves or custom suggestions from MCPL staff.
   
• Technology Support – MCPL staff know that as important as technology is in today’s world, it’s also become increasingly complex! The Library offers a variety of programs on topics like Internet for Beginners and how to use Microsoft Word or Excel. Staff can also provide one-on-one support to customers using technology at their local branch, including the public computers and internet.
   
• Homework Help – The Library offers books and online resources on nearly every subject, making it the perfect one-stop shop for most homework projects. If your student needs a little extra help, try Live Homework Help from Tutor.com. Free with your Library card, this online service connects students to a live tutor who can assist them in almost every subject, 7 days a week, in English or Spanish, from noon to midnight. Students can talk or message back and forth with the tutor, submit papers for review, walk through math problems together, and more. 
   
• Book Group Service – All MCPL branches have book groups that you can join and meet up with throughout the year, but did you know that you can also start your own community book group with the help of the Library? The Library’s Book Group Service offers 10 copies of select titles for groups to reserve, pick up at their local branch, and return when they’re finished. No cost—just conversation!
   
• Support for Small Businesses – The Library’s Square One Small Business Services team specializes in helping current and aspiring entrepreneurs create and grow their enterprises. They provide free educational programs both in person and online, and they offer one-on-one consultations to learn more about your business goals and provide suggestions on how to achieve them. 
   
• Trace Your Family History – One of MCPL’s 33 branches is the Midwest Genealogy Center in Independence. This unique location is completely dedicated to family history research. All Library customers can use their thousands of on-site records for free, and some genealogy resources can also be accessed at your local branch or from home. 
   
• …and finally…back to books! MCPL branches are stocked with physical copies of books for all ages and interests. If you prefer to connect from the comfort of home, you can download eBooks and eAudiobooks, as well as digital magazines and music and movie streaming services, without ever leaving your couch. All you need is your Library card and an internet connection. 
   

This National Library Week, explore all that your Mid-Continent Public Library has to offer! And if libraries have had a great impact on your life, share your story with us on the My Library Story webpage.

Happy National Library Week!

-MCPL Marketing & Communications