The Northfield Public Library, located in Northfield, Minnesota, is a vibrant community hub that offers a wide range of resources and services to its patrons. As a research guide, this article aims to provide an in-depth look at what's available at the Northfield Public Library, highlighting its collections, programs, and services that cater to diverse needs and interests.
Collection Overview
The Northfield Public Library boasts an extensive collection of over 70,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and CDs. The library’s collection is continually updated to reflect the latest releases and trends in literature, music, and film. Patrons can browse the shelves or search the online catalog to discover new titles and authors. The library also offers a variety of digital collections, including e-books and audiobooks, which can be accessed remotely through the library’s website.
Special Collections
The Northfield Public Library features several special collections that showcase the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. The Rice County Historical Society collection includes rare books, documents, and artifacts that highlight the region’s pioneer history. The library also houses a local authors collection, which celebrates the works of writers who have lived or worked in Northfield. Additionally, the library offers a genealogy collection, which provides resources and support for individuals researching their family histories.
| Collection Type | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Books | 50,000+ |
| Audiobooks | 5,000+ |
| E-books | 10,000+ |
| DVDs | 2,000+ |
| CDs | 1,500+ |
Programs and Services
The Northfield Public Library offers a wide range of programs and services that cater to diverse ages and interests. The library’s children’s department provides storytime sessions, book clubs, and other activities designed to foster a love of reading and learning in young minds. The library also offers adult programs, including author readings, book discussions, and workshops on topics such as technology, wellness, and personal finance.
Research Assistance
The Northfield Public Library provides research assistance to patrons through its reference desk and research databases. Librarians are available to help with research questions, provide guidance on using library resources, and offer support with technology and digital tools. The library also subscribes to a variety of online databases, including JSTOR, EBSCO, and ProQuest, which provide access to scholarly articles, academic journals, and other research materials.
- Reference desk hours: Monday-Thursday, 9am-8pm; Friday-Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 1pm-5pm
- Research databases: available 24/7 through the library's website
- Interlibrary loan services: available for materials not owned by the library
Digital Resources
The Northfield Public Library provides a range of digital resources that can be accessed remotely through its website. These resources include e-books and audiobooks from OverDrive and Hoople, as well as streaming services such as Kanopy and Hoopla. The library also offers online language learning tools, including Rosetta Stone and Mango Languages.
Technology and Computing
The Northfield Public Library provides access to computers and printers for patrons to use. The library also offers wireless internet access and mobile printing services. Additionally, the library provides technology workshops and one-on-one instruction to help patrons develop their digital skills and confidence.
- Computer availability: 20 public computers, including laptops and desktops
- Printer services: black and white, color, and 3D printing available
- Wireless internet access: available throughout the library
What are the library’s hours of operation?
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The Northfield Public Library is open Monday-Thursday, 9am-8pm; Friday-Saturday, 9am-5pm; and Sunday, 1pm-5pm.
How do I get a library card?
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To get a library card, visit the library’s circulation desk and provide proof of identity and residency. Library cards are free for Northfield residents and available for a small fee for non-residents.
Can I access the library’s digital resources from home?
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Yes, the Northfield Public Library’s digital resources, including e-books, audiobooks, and streaming services, can be accessed remotely through the library’s website using your library card and PIN.
