The South Country Library, located in Bellport, New York, is a public library that serves the communities of Bellport, Brookhaven, and surrounding areas. As a vital part of the local community, the library provides a wide range of services, resources, and programs for residents of all ages. With a strong focus on education, entertainment, and community engagement, the South Country Library has become a beloved institution in the region.
History and Development
The South Country Library was established in 1956, with the goal of providing accessible and comprehensive library services to the growing population of southern Suffolk County. Over the years, the library has undergone several expansions and renovations, including a major upgrade in 2007 that added new facilities, technologies, and resources. Today, the library boasts a diverse collection of over 200,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and databases.
Services and Programs
The South Country Library offers a variety of services and programs designed to meet the needs of the community. These include:
- Free Wi-Fi and computer access
- Research assistance and library instruction
- Children’s storytime and literacy programs
- Teen services, including gaming, book clubs, and college prep
- Adult programs, such as author talks, book discussions, and cultural events
- Interlibrary loan services, allowing patrons to borrow materials from other libraries
- Access to digital media, including e-books, audiobooks, and streaming services
In addition to these services, the library also hosts a range of community events, including concerts, art exhibits, and author readings. The library's meeting rooms are available for public use, and the library often partners with local organizations to provide educational and cultural programming.
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Children's Services | Storytime, literacy programs, and activities for children from birth to age 12 |
| Teen Services | Gaming, book clubs, college prep, and other programs for teens aged 13-18 |
| Adult Services | Author talks, book discussions, cultural events, and other programs for adults |
| Research Assistance | Help with research, library instruction, and access to digital resources |
Collection and Resources
The South Country Library’s collection includes a diverse range of materials, including fiction and nonfiction books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and databases. The library’s online catalog allows patrons to search for materials, place holds, and access digital resources from the comfort of their own homes. The library also offers a range of digital media services, including streaming services for music, movies, and TV shows.
Digital Resources
The South Country Library provides access to a variety of digital resources, including:
- E-books and audiobooks through services like OverDrive and Hoopla
- Streaming services for music, movies, and TV shows, such as Freegal and Kanopy
- Online databases, including language learning tools, test prep, and career resources
- Digital magazines and newspapers, available through services like RBdigital and PressReader
These digital resources are available to library patrons 24/7, and can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection. The library also offers training and support to help patrons get the most out of these resources.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The South Country Library is open Monday through Thursday from 9:30am to 9:00pm, Friday from 9:30am to 5:00pm, and Saturday from 9:30am to 5:00pm. The library is closed on Sundays.
How do I get a library card?
+To get a library card, simply visit the library in person and bring a valid form of identification and proof of address. Library cards are free to residents of the South Country Central School District and are available to non-residents for a small fee.
What services does the library offer for children?
+The library offers a range of services for children, including storytime, literacy programs, and activities for children from birth to age 12. The library also has a dedicated children’s room with a collection of books, audiobooks, and other materials specifically for children.
