Try a nonfiction title to learn about the wondrous creatures we share our planet with, or read a fictional story focused on animals for thought-provoking fun. You can also join our "Tails and Tales" 2021 summer reading program and you might win a prize!
Think Library: Blog
Did you know the Downtown Library offers unique items for check out like mobile hotspots, energy monitors, book club kits, seeds, toys, and outdoor adventure backpacks? They’re part of our Library of Things!
A Library of Things is a collection of items for loan that expands the boundaries of traditionally defined library materials, meeting the needs of our diverse and growing community.
In Honor of National Photography Month, here are some curated picks to help you either learn more about photography, or go out and start taking photos yourself!
Barbara “Barb” Fisher, a dear friend of the VITAL program, passed away on April 1, 2021. Barb’s love of reading led her to VITAL in 2008, when she participated in training to teach English as a New Language to Bloomington newcomers. Over the next 12 years, Barb was a regular fixture at VITAL. As a one-on-one tutor, she volunteered with nine different English language learners, helping them improve their language skills and confidence while adjusting to life in the US.
National Volunteer Week is an opportunity to recognize and thank the volunteers who lend their time, talent, and voices to make a difference in our community! We are fortunate to have so many volunteers who are passionate about the Library’s mission and generously share their skills in a variety of long-term and short-term commitments.
With the passage of the American Rescue Plan individuals can enroll or change their current Federal Health Insurance Marketplace plan now through August 15, 2021. Individuals are qualifying for substantial savings in a new plan or on the same plan with lower monthly premiums.
When children experience trauma, we encourage them to seek out the helpers in their lives. The people who work at Susie’s Place are among the helpers in our community providing support for children who have been harmed.
Even if you aren’t able to travel right now you can sit back and let one of these titles take you on a journey.
This list is to better understand those facing homelessness, or to provide resources to help those in need.
Some books to inspire your office at home--your bedroom, sofa, or kitchen. Whatever creative space you are using to Zoom or room-share, these coffee table books and practical guides can improve your space for optimal productivity and comforting style at your fingertips, showing you how to try something new or indulge in therapeutic color, modern design, and traditional art styles.
Celebrate Black History Month with this selection of books written by black authors. We have included a range of titles and genres to properly showcase the diversity of black writers today.
The internet is everywhere, allowing you to work, play, and complete daily life tasks wherever there is WiFi. This is especially helpful in the age of physical distancing and mask-wearing.
For those with WiFi access, barriers may still exist. Some community members experience frustration with email and online forms, and concerns about internet safety, leaving them feeling increasingly isolated from social connections and workforce opportunities.
Reviewed by Bill Koester, Materials Handler.
The Stand by Stephen King is available as an eBook through CloudLibrary and Overdrive.
Reviewed by Craig J. Clark, Senior Materials Handler
Chisholm ’72: Unbought & Unbossed directed by Shola Lynch is available to stream on Kanopy.