Increasing Online Options at the Bartlett Public Library District

Since the Bartlett Public Library District has closed its doors as a preventative measure in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, staff members have been hard at work to make sure more resources are available for patrons to access from their homes.

Below are the various changes to BPLD’s online services:

-BPLD patrons may sign up for an eCard to access the Library's online resources such as Libby, Hoopla, Freegal Music, Flipster and more. These are downloadable and streaming services that allow BPLD patrons to watch TV, listen to music, read eBooks, listen to eAudiobooks and more. Here is the link that will bring patrons right to the sign-up page: https://bit.ly/BPLDeCard

-There is a Springtivities challenge available for patrons to participate in. Complete various tasks such as calling a friend, read a book and more to be entered into a drawing where two winners will receive a year-long subscription to Disney+. Here is the link for patrons to sign-up: http://bartlettlibrary.readsquared.com/

-There has been a drastic increase in items available for checkout through Libby.

-The Library’s edition of Ancestry.com is now available for patrons to use from their homes; it used to only be accessible from inside the Library building.

-TumbleBooks has made its various online libraries available for free for BPLD patrons through at least August 31, 2020. This includes: TumbleBookLibrary (K-5), TumbleMath (K-5), TeenBookCloud (5-12), AudioBookCloud (Teen/Adult), RomanceBookCloud (Adult).

-Additional databases have been added to Worldbook to assist families with learning from home. These will be available through April 30.

-BPLD Librarians have started to host Storytimes on the Library’s social media sites. For all the videos, check the Facebook page.

-One of the book discussion groups, BookLite, is now a Facebook group. Members can discuss a common read together via this platform while it is not possible to meet together in person.

-Although the building is closed, the WiFi is still up and running, which can be accessed if patrons are near the Library.

-On the Library’s social media sites, the public can find a variety of activities to do while staying at home. This may include virtual tours of popular destinations, fun crafts for children and more.

-Staff members are giving reading recommendations on the Library’s social media platforms. Patrons are also encouraged to ask for recommendations through the platforms. A compiled list of all these posts can be found using #BPLDRecommends.

For the latest Library reopen date, check www.bartlettlibrary.org or check out the Library’s social media platforms. Patrons may also sign up for the Library’s eNewsletter for information. To sign up, head to the Library’s website, scroll to the bottom of the screen and hit the button that says “Subscribe to our eNewsletters.” From there, customizable options are available.