The Lafayette Parish Library is a public library system serving the residents of Lafayette Parish, Louisiana. With a rich history dating back to 1940, the library has evolved to meet the changing needs of the community, providing a wide range of services, resources, and programs for people of all ages. The library system consists of nine branches, including the main library located in downtown Lafayette, as well as eight other branches strategically situated throughout the parish.
History and Development
The Lafayette Parish Library was established in 1940 with a collection of approximately 5,000 books and a staff of two librarians. Over the years, the library has undergone significant transformations, including expansions, renovations, and technological advancements. In the 1960s, the library introduced its first bookmobile, providing outreach services to rural areas and underserved communities. The 1980s saw the introduction of automation, with the implementation of a computerized catalog system, enabling patrons to search for materials more efficiently.
Branches and Services
The Lafayette Parish Library system comprises nine branches, each offering a unique set of services and resources tailored to the needs of its surrounding community. The main library, located in downtown Lafayette, serves as the central hub, housing the majority of the library’s collections, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, and databases. The other branches, situated in various neighborhoods and rural areas, provide a range of services, including children’s storytime, adult literacy programs, and access to computers and the internet.
The library also offers a variety of programs and events, such as author readings, book clubs, and cultural exhibitions, aimed at promoting literacy, education, and community engagement. The library's outreach services include a bookmobile, which visits nursing homes, schools, and other community centers, as well as a homebound delivery service, providing books and other materials to patrons with mobility issues.
| Branch | Location | Services |
|---|---|---|
| Main Library | 301 W. Congress St, Lafayette, LA 70501 | Computer access, printing, scanning, faxing, meeting rooms |
| East Regional Library | 215 La Neuville Rd, Lafayette, LA 70508 | Children's storytime, adult literacy programs, computer classes |
| North Regional Library | 5101 N. University Ave, Lafayette, LA 70507 | Book clubs, author readings, cultural exhibitions |
Collection and Resources
The Lafayette Parish Library boasts a diverse collection of over 500,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, and databases. The library’s catalog system allows patrons to search for materials online, place holds, and renew items remotely. The library also participates in the Interlibrary Loan program, enabling patrons to borrow materials from other libraries across the state and country.
Technology and Digital Services
In recent years, the Lafayette Parish Library has invested heavily in technology, introducing a range of digital services and resources to enhance the patron experience. The library offers free Wi-Fi, computer access, and printing services, as well as a variety of online databases and digital collections, including e-books, audiobooks, music, and movies. Patrons can also access the library’s digital services, such as online tutoring, language learning tools, and career development resources, from the comfort of their own homes.
The library's website and online catalog provide a wealth of information and resources, including research guides, book reviews, and recommended reading lists. The library's social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, offer a convenient way for patrons to stay informed about upcoming events, new releases, and library news.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The Lafayette Parish Library’s hours of operation vary by branch. The main library is open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, Friday and Saturday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, and Sunday from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
How do I get a library card?
+To get a library card, visit any of the Lafayette Parish Library branches and provide a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, and proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
Can I access the library’s digital services from home?
+Yes, the Lafayette Parish Library offers a range of digital services, including e-books, audiobooks, music, and movies, that can be accessed from the comfort of your own home using your library card and PIN.
