Morrison’s Odell Public Library Enhances Access with E-Books

Odell Public Library in Morrison has significantly improved its offerings by providing patrons with access to thousands of e-books and audiobooks. This initiative allows library members to enjoy reading and listening from the comfort of their homes using a variety of devices, including iPads, Kindles, tablets, and computers.

To get started, users simply need a valid Odell library card. Once they have that, they can download either the Libby or Palace Project app to gain access to the library’s extensive digital collection. With these apps, patrons can browse, borrow, and enjoy titles seamlessly.

Guide to Using Library Apps

The Libby app is available for a range of platforms, including iOS, Android, Amazon Fire tablets, as well as Windows, Mac, and Chromebooks. Users can find their library by following prompts within the app and signing in with their library card information. Once logged in, they can browse the library’s catalog or search for specific titles.

Borrowed items appear on a user’s Shelf, where they can manage loans and holds. The app also provides notifications and a timeline to track borrowing activity.

Similarly, the Palace Project app, which can be found in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, offers a user-friendly interface for accessing e-books and audiobooks. Users can search for titles and borrow them by signing in with their library barcode number and password. Once downloaded, readers can enjoy their selections with just a tap.

Community Programs and Events

The library is not only a hub for digital reading but also hosts a variety of engaging community programs. One such program is Storytime, a weekly drop-in session for families with children in preschool and early elementary grades. This event features stories, songs, and crafts, making it a delightful experience for young readers and their families.

For those interested in building and creativity, the Lego Club meets on the first Saturday of each month, providing a space for builders of all ages to create and display their designs. The library provides a diverse selection of building materials, including Lego, Duplo, and MegaBlok.

The Pokémon Club gathers on the second Saturday of the month, allowing fans to play, trade, and share knowledge about Pokémon. This club caters to both seasoned trainers and newcomers alike.

Despite these vibrant offerings, the library is currently facing challenges in acquiring new materials. The unexpected closure of long-time book distributor Baker & Taylor has led to delays. Library staff are working diligently to transition to a new distributor and assist patrons in locating items within Odell’s collection. They are also facilitating interlibrary loans for materials that cannot be found locally.

Recognizing Excellence and New Initiatives

On November 18, 2023, Miss Katie received the “Because Nice Matters Award” from the Morrison Area Chamber for her outstanding customer service at Odell Public Library. This recognition highlights the library’s commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for all patrons.

Looking ahead, the library is introducing new take-and-make crafts for January, including a snowman craft and a scavenger hunt with a riddle for participants to solve. Additionally, the library will host a session on improving online health literacy on February 10, 2024, led by faculty from Western Illinois University. This free program aims to enhance participants’ digital health communication skills.

For those interested in gardening, a winter sowing workshop will take place on January 17, 2024. Participants will learn to plant seeds outdoors during winter, utilizing upcycled materials to create their own seedling incubators.

The Odell Public Library also offers passes to local attractions such as the Putnam Museum, Sawmill Museum, and Niabi Zoo for adult library cardholders. These passes are available on a first-come, first-served basis, allowing patrons to explore local culture and nature.

As always, the library provides an array of resources, including free Wi-Fi, public computers, and educational materials, ensuring it remains a vital community hub for learning and engagement.