Have you visited the Fresno County Public Library (FCPL) lately?
Many think of the library as a place for books, to study or conduct research, or to access the internet for free. However, our local library system’s services actually far exceed those expectations.
I recently spent some time doing my own “homework” on our libraries and all they have to offer, and I was in awe at the breadth of services available to Fresno County residents at no cost.
To help encourage my fellow Fresnans to enjoy the many services of the FCPL, I’ve compiled a list of ten great services beyond borrowing books that are available to library card holders right now.
1. Learn a new language
Mango Languages is a complete language learning system that you can do online, totally free. Learn one of 30 languages, or share it with friends who’d like to learn English. Access Mango here.
2. Learn to manage money well
The Library has a curated list of resource links ready to help you with everything you may need related to personal finances, from navigating banks to dealing with identity theft and applying for financial aid for college.
3. Get help preparing for the written driver’s test
Need to renew or obtain a driver’s license? Brush up on your road rules in a study group held for free at the Sunnyside Library Branch on Tuesday and Thursday evenings.
4. Take the little ones to enjoy Spring Storytime
Held throughout the season at all FCPL branches, parents and caregivers can enjoy sessions that cater to specific age groups and needs. Check out the schedule here.
5. Dial-a-bedtime-story
If you can’t make it to Storytime, or you’d like a night off from reading the bedtime story, the library has you covered there, too! Simply call (559) 600-TALE (8253) any time (24 hours a day) to hear a fun and free story read aloud. Prefer to watch a story in animated form? Check out Bookflix for over 190 animated character stories for children ages 2-8 with 50 titles in Spanish. (Library card number required.)
6. Get help with homework
For older kids, the library offers numerous resources that can be accessed online that help school-aged children with homework, project research, and even test preparation. Find those resources here.
7. Enter your poetry in a contest and possibly win prizes!
If you’re a writer, you’ll be pleased to know FCPL celebrates National Poetry Month (April) each year by hosting a poetry contest. This year marks the contest’s 19th year, and there are prize categories for entries from writers ages 8 through adult. For information on how to enter, click here.
8. Receive books by mail
If you or someone you know is without the ability to get to and from the library, you may be eligible to receive books by mail at no cost. Apply online here.
9. Download and read magazines for FREE
Thousands of magazines to choose from, no lending or waiting required. Just log in with your library card number and enjoy the latest edition of your favorite magazine here.
10. Drink local beer and wine while raising funds for FCPL!
That’s right—on May 10, you can enjoy local brews and vintages as well as restaurant fare from 5-9 p.m. at the Woodward Park Library’s annual Brews & Vines fundraiser.
It should be a great time for all, as DJs Green Giant and Conor Miles provide live entertainment, including hosting a pub quiz-style trivia game. Photo booth, music, and souvenir glasses will be provided, so come on out to this great fundraiser and support our amazing local libraries and all of the wonderful services they offer.
For tickets or additional info about this event, click here.
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