Read, Learn, Connect & Create

Coronavirus Updates

Physical Libraries Closed

All physical Library locations are closed until further notice, including the Main Library, Ellettsville Branch, Bookmobile, Van, and Homebound Services. The Library will determine a building reopening date based on the advice and directive of state and local officials in conjunction with the health and safety of staff and the public. 

All materials return slots are closed. Please keep your materials until the Library reopens. All materials due dates have been extended to May 1 and the Library does not charge overdue fines. Please disregard any late notices received. 

All Library programs and public meeting room reservations are canceled through May 31.

All items currently on hold will continue to be held for you when the Library reopens. At this time, you cannot place additional holds.

Posted by Paula G.O. on March 10, 2020
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Read, Learn, Connect & Create

Library Receives Wahl Grant to Support STEAM Objectives

woman and child using an ipad

A grant from the Wahl Family Charitable Trust will fund the purchase of iPad minis for dedicated use at the Ellettsville Branch, expanding access to STEAM tools for school-age children and increasing the opportunity for related programs at the Library.

“In recent years, local schools have made it a priority to provide learning opportunities in the areas of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM),” said Lisa Champelli, Children’s Strategist. “The Library’s strategic plan aligns with these school-based learning opportunities and will further expand upon them. We are thankful for this grant.”

The new iPads will support gaming and storytelling at Ellettsville, allowing young people to express their imagination using digital technology and design, and to build in a collaborative environment using digital equipment.

Posted by Paula G.O. on January 30, 2020
Create
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Read, Learn, Connect & Create

Library Eliminates Overdue Fines

The Library is closing the book on your fines!

At their meeting on Wednesday, January 15, the Library Board of Directors approved a policy to eliminate overdue fines, effective March 1. The policy waives all unpaid overdue fines and collection agency fees charged prior to implementation, and eliminates fines for all late returns moving forward.

Libraries have long charged overdue fines to promote responsible borrowing and as a modest source of revenue. Recent national trends have shifted to focus on the negative impacts of fines as a deterrent to library use, especially among disadvantaged individuals. Consequently, a growing number of public libraries have eliminated overdue fines in an effort to support all members of their communities, and the American Library Association earlier this year passed a resolution stating that fines constitute a barrier to service and urging their elimination nationwide.

Posted by Paula G.O. on January 15, 2020
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The 2020 Census

hands raised

The Library is a proud partner of the 2020 census, which determines the allocation of billions of dollars in federal funding. If you’re not already familiar, once every 10 years, the census counts every person residing in the 50 United States, DC, and five US territories. Data collected affects the country’s ability to ensure equal representation and access to government resources, directly affecting funding for schools, healthcare services, housing, transportation, and of course, libraries. Everyone living in the United States is required by law to be counted in the 2020 Census.

Posted by Paula G.O. on December 30, 2019
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Read, Learn, Connect & Create

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