The Oak Lawn Library, situated in the heart of Oak Lawn, Illinois, is a vibrant community hub that offers a wide range of resources and services to its patrons. With an extensive collection of books, media, and programs for all ages, navigating the library can be a daunting task, especially for new visitors. To help you make the most of your library experience, here are 10 Oak Lawn Library tips for easy navigation.
Getting Started with Library Services
To begin, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the library’s layout and services. The Oak Lawn Library is divided into several sections, including the adult, teen, and children’s departments, each offering a unique set of resources and programs. Library cards are available free of charge to Oak Lawn residents and can be obtained by providing proof of residency and a valid form of identification. Once you have your library card, you can access a vast array of materials, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and more.
Using the Online Catalog
The Oak Lawn Library’s online catalog is a powerful tool that allows you to search for materials, place holds, and manage your account from the comfort of your own home. To access the catalog, simply visit the library’s website and click on the “Catalog” tab. From there, you can search for materials by title, author, subject, or keyword, and even filter your results by format, language, and availability. Once you’ve found the item you’re looking for, you can place a hold and have it ready for pickup at the library.
In addition to the online catalog, the Oak Lawn Library also offers a variety of research databases and digital resources, including hoopla, OverDrive, and Kanopy. These resources provide access to a wide range of digital content, including e-books, audiobooks, music, movies, and more. To access these resources, simply visit the library's website and click on the "Digital Resources" tab.
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| hoopla | A digital media platform that offers e-books, audiobooks, music, movies, and TV shows |
| OverDrive | A digital library that offers e-books and audiobooks for borrowing |
| Kanopy | A streaming service that offers independent films, documentaries, and classic movies |
Navigating the Library’s Physical Space
Once you’ve explored the library’s online resources, it’s time to visit the physical space. The Oak Lawn Library is located at 9427 S. Raymond Ave, Oak Lawn, IL 60453. The library is open Monday through Thursday from 9am to 9pm, Friday and Saturday from 9am to 5pm, and Sunday from 1pm to 5pm. Parking is available in the library’s parking lot, which is located adjacent to the building.
Using Library Technology
The Oak Lawn Library offers a variety of technology services, including public computers, wireless internet, and printing and scanning. The library’s public computers are equipped with Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Cloud, making it easy to work on documents, presentations, and other projects. The library also offers free wireless internet access, which can be accessed using your laptop, tablet, or smartphone.
In addition to technology services, the Oak Lawn Library also offers a variety of programs and events for adults, teens, and children. These programs include author readings, book clubs, children's storytime, and more. To stay up-to-date on upcoming programs and events, be sure to check the library's website or follow the library on social media.
Getting Help from Library Staff
The Oak Lawn Library staff is dedicated to providing excellent customer service and is always happy to help with any questions or concerns you may have. Whether you need help finding a book, using a database, or navigating the library’s technology services, the staff is here to assist you. Reference services are available at the adult and children’s desks, and research assistance is available by appointment.
Using Library Study Spaces
The Oak Lawn Library offers a variety of study spaces, including quiet study areas, group study rooms, and meeting rooms. The quiet study areas are perfect for individuals who need a peaceful place to work, while the group study rooms are ideal for students and groups who need to collaborate on projects. The meeting rooms can be reserved for community groups and organizations and are equipped with audiovisual equipment and seating for up to 100 people.
In conclusion, the Oak Lawn Library is a vibrant community hub that offers a wide range of resources and services to its patrons. By following these 10 tips, you can navigate the library with ease and make the most of your library experience. Whether you're a researcher, student, or simply looking for a good book to read, the Oak Lawn Library has something for everyone.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
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The Oak Lawn Library is open Monday through Thursday from 9am to 9pm, Friday and Saturday from 9am to 5pm, and Sunday from 1pm to 5pm.
How do I get a library card?
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Library cards are available free of charge to Oak Lawn residents and can be obtained by providing proof of residency and a valid form of identification.
What types of materials can I borrow from the library?
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The Oak Lawn Library offers a wide range of materials, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and more.
How do I access the library’s digital resources?
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The library’s digital resources, including hoopla, OverDrive, and Kanopy, can be accessed through the library’s website using your library card and PIN.
Can I reserve a study room or meeting room at the library?
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Yes, the library’s study rooms and meeting rooms can be reserved by calling the library or visiting the library’s website.
