“Liber” is derived from the Latin word “liber,” meaning “book.” For this reason, a library has been a space or facility that houses books, magazines, and other printed items for centuries. However, libraries have been much more than that for a long time. For instance, the eight sites of the Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (EVPL) provide a wide range of resources in addition to books, nearly all of which are free for patrons who have a library card, which is also free. You’re missing out on a lot of amazing things if you haven’t visited the library lately. Let me share a few of them with you.
10 Resources/Services Offered at Evansville Public Libraries
The following EVPL branches offer these resources (as well as a number of others)…
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EVPL CENTRAL
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EVPL EAST
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EVPL MCCOLLOUGH
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EVPL NORTH PARK
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EVPL OAKLYN
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EVPL RED BANK
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EVPL STRINGTOWN
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EVPL WEST
1. CDs – Music
Since I’ve been in radio for more than 25 years and have always loved music, it goes without saying that I’ll start with music. One of the most underutilized resources for music is the public library. A library is an excellent place to find new (to you) music, even though they might not have the newest CDs when they are released. Taking a chance on a few bands or artists that you might find interesting is OK. There is no expense involved, and you might find a buried treasure.
2. CDs – Audiobooks
For anyone (like myself) who struggle to sit down and read a book, this is a fantastic substitute. Instead of paying a monthly charge to listen to one, I would much prefer relax and enjoy it. Help from public libraries!
3. DVDs – Movies and TV
TV shows, new films, old favorites, hidden gems, and more. All of them are available for free “rent” at your local library.
4. E-Materials
All of the previously listed content, including music, movies, TV shows, audiobooks, standard books, and more, is available online through the EVPL.
5. Computers/Internet Access
Even though computers and monthly internet subscriptions are expensive, we nevertheless depend on them for a lot of things in our life. Fortunately, the EVPL provides its members with computers and internet connection.
6. Meeting Rooms
People must occasionally meet in order to talk about issues. What do you do if you don’t have an office and you’re sick of holding meetings in your garage or living room? You can make use of the rooms that are offered at different EVPL branches.
7. Tutoring
Many students require a little additional assistance because school can be challenging. After their children graduate from third grade or so, many parents (raises hand slowly) are essentially worthless. Several EVPL branches offer tutoring services.
8. Print/Fax/Copy
The capacity to print, copy, and fax documents is one of the fundamental services provided by the EVPL that most of us take for granted.
9. Storytime
Storytime is loved by all. No one. Naturally, children enjoy storytime, and parents enjoy it since it provides them with brief entertainment. Throughout the week, the EVPL organizes multiple storytimes at various venues, seemingly every day.
10. Recurring Events
EVPL locations provide a number of regular events, such as Baby & Me, Block Party, Play & Learn Playdate, Tech Time, Family Dance Party, and Storytime. All of them are available at atevpl.org.
