By Steffen Klenk
Libraries are more than just places to learn; they are a beacon for our own communities. It can be a haven for those who want to read a favorite book, search for information, learn something new or listen to an exciting thriller. Our local public libraries are there when we need them most, and while the physical doors remain closed during this time, there are still many ways you can stay connected.
As local libraries continue to offer many services to the public, Ocean City’s Library Director Karen Mahar says their staff has been doing their absolute best to bring the library to their patrons. “We had to shift gears and look for new ways to help people utilize the library.” Mahar wants people to know that “During these unprecedented times, we want our patrons to know that the public library is still here for them.” And word has been spreading. The circulation rates along Ocean City Library’s digital products went up by 1,700 pieces over the last month.
With an active library card, patrons can access a world of information directly from the comfort of home. Services such as NewsBank allow library patrons to catch up on local, national and global news headlines in print and in text. There website even offers a wide range of genealogy tools. Or, check out Freegal, a free music streaming service with access to over 15 million songs. Listeners can log in at freegal.com using their card number and PIN.
Bring home your favorite movies and TV shows through Hoopla. This free service is available to card holders at participating libraries. Through the online portal, users can access thousands of movies and TV shows, music, e-books, audiobooks and comics. Up to 20 items can be rented out every month and the selection is virtually endless. This free service is available at participating libraries in our local area. Users can sign up at hoopla.com or the Hoopla app for iPhone and Android.
Members of the Atlantic County Library System can get access to Axis360. This free service allows users to scroll through through thousands of e-book titles at no additional charge. Applicable card holders can also sign up for the childrens learning website, Tumblebook Library. The Tumblebook digital platform features many e-books, read-alongs, games and videos, helping children from preschool to 3rd grade to learn while discovering the joy of reading. For those who are interested in accessing these services, the Atlantic County Library System is currently offering temporary digital library cards to all residents with an Atlantic County address.
In addition to digital content, there is a wide selection of programs for both children and adults. Ocean City Librarians Miss Leslie, Miss Taimi and Miss Maureen host virtual children’s singalongs and storytime on YouTube and Facebook. You can also take part in online book clubs, virtual lectures with local leaders and language classes using Zoom video conferencing. To find out more about available programs or to sign up, please visit oceancitylibrary.org. You can also find a wide variety of do-it-yourself projects and virtual reading time on Atlantic County Library System’s YouTube channel.
Our local libraries are taking every initiative to connect with their patrons, by providing free access to their wealth of information and remote databases for learning. You can access the entire world of the public library directly from home. Be sure to visit your libraries website to find out about available programs and services, and how you can get digital access.
Steffen Klenk is a multimedia journalist. He resides in Ocean City and enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life.
