The Tompkins County Library, located in Ithaca, New York, is a vibrant community hub that offers a wide range of free resources to its patrons. From books and media to programs and services, the library is committed to providing equal access to information and opportunities for learning and growth. In this article, we will delve into the various free resources available at the Tompkins County Library, highlighting their benefits and how to access them.
Overview of the Tompkins County Library
Established in 1864, the Tompkins County Library has a long history of serving the community. With a collection of over 300,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, DVDs, and digital media, the library caters to diverse interests and ages. The library’s mission is to inspire and nurture a love of reading, learning, and exploration, and to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for all members of the community.
Free Resources for Children and Teens
The Tompkins County Library offers a variety of free resources specifically designed for children and teens. The library’s Children’s Room features a vast collection of picture books, early readers, and chapter books, as well as a play area with toys and puzzles. The library also hosts storytime sessions, book clubs, and other programs to promote literacy and a love of reading among young people. For teens, the library provides access to online resources, such as tutoring services, college preparation materials, and career guidance tools.
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Children's Room | A welcoming space with books, toys, and programs for children |
| Storytime | Regular sessions of reading and storytelling for young children |
| Online Resources | Access to tutoring, college prep, and career guidance tools for teens |
Free Resources for Adults
In addition to its resources for children and teens, the Tompkins County Library offers a range of free resources for adults. The library’s adult collection includes fiction and nonfiction books, audiobooks, e-books, and digital media, as well as online databases and research tools to support learning and career development. The library also hosts author talks, book clubs, and other programs to promote literacy, cultural enrichment, and community engagement.
Free Resources for Career Development and Small Business
The Tompkins County Library provides free resources to support career development and small business growth. The library’s career center offers access to online job boards, resume building tools, and interview preparation resources. The library also partners with local organizations to provide small business resources, including business planning tools, marketing guides, and access to capital.
- Online job boards and career resources
- Resume building tools and interview preparation
- Small business resources, including business planning and marketing guides
Accessing Free Resources at the Tompkins County Library
To access the free resources available at the Tompkins County Library, patrons can visit the library’s website or stop by the library in person. The library’s online catalog allows patrons to search for books, media, and other resources, as well as access digital collections and online databases. The library also offers free Wi-Fi and public computers for patrons to use.
Getting a Library Card
To borrow materials or access the library’s digital resources, patrons will need to obtain a library card. Library cards are free and available to anyone who lives, works, or attends school in Tompkins County. Patrons can apply for a library card online or in person at the library.
- Visit the library's website or stop by the library in person
- Apply for a library card online or in person
- Provide required documentation, such as proof of residency or identification
What are the library’s hours of operation?
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The Tompkins County Library is open Monday through Thursday from 10am to 8pm, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 5pm, and Sunday from 1pm to 5pm.
How do I get a library card?
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To get a library card, visit the library’s website or stop by the library in person. You will need to provide proof of residency or identification, and fill out a brief application form.
What kind of resources are available at the library?
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The Tompkins County Library offers a wide range of resources, including books, media, digital collections, online databases, and programs and services for children, teens, and adults.
