Libraries are vital resources for communities around the world. Not only do they offer free educational opportunities, but they also create space for entertainment, support, and fellowship. During these unprecedented times, libraries are working around the clock to make their resources accessible to families at a distance.
We spoke with Vivienne Byrd, the supervisor for Full STEAM Ahead and Citizen Science initiatives in the exploration and creativity department at the Los Angeles Public Library, a library that typically sees thousands of in-person visitors each day, to see how they are navigating this new space.
“It’s more important than ever for us to provide educational and entertaining resources for patrons at home to keep them productive, safe, healthy, informed, and connected. We want our patrons to know that even though the physical library buildings are closed, we’re still here to help in any way we can,” Byrd said.
Libraries may be physically closed, but their online resources are open for use! If you don’t already have a library card, fear not. Libraries are providing free online applications. You can find the Los Angeles/Orange County library applications here:
- Los Angeles Public Library (LAPL) – The e-card will give you immediate access to electronic media: audiobooks, movies, podcasts, newspapers, scholarly journals, online learning, and more. Note: An e-card will not allow you to access the library’s physical collections or use the library’s computers. Register here.
- Los Angeles County – Library cards are available free of charge to permanent and temporary residents of California. With an LA County Library card, you can access the library’s databases to download audiobooks, books, and music from home. Sign up here.
- Orange County Public Libraries – If you do not have a library card, you may register for a free eCard. An eCard provides access to online databases and downloadable eMedia. It cannot be used to borrow books, or place holds on library materials, nor is it valid for use of the public Internet and WiFi computers at the libraries. Register here.
As schools and families move to distance/virtual learning, here are some free resources you can access online through your local library.
Streaming and eMedia: The Los Angeles Public Library has been offering free digital content (books, music, movies, workshops, courses) since before its physical closures, providing a great opportunity for at-home entertainment. Resources can be accessed here.
STEAM Resources: The Los Angeles Public Library’s Full STEAM program has compiled a list of activities, crafts, lessons, and books from a wide variety of resources for families looking to spend time learning and engaging in citizen science at home. The list is available here.
Virtual Storytime: Instead of in-person events, the Los Angeles Public Library has pivoted to providing online gatherings, from teen crafts to chess groups to flannel-themed storytime.
Kids’ Corner: The Los Angeles County Library system has created a Kids’ Corner with ideas for activities for children. The activities are free and accessible to anyone with or without a library card.
Libby: Libby is a free app where you use your library card to access hundreds of eBooks and audiobooks that can be read and listened to offline and sent to a Kindle or e-reader. Find it here.
Hoopla: Hoopla is another free app with access to eBooks, children’s books, audiobooks, music, and more. You can find it here.
Tumblebooks: Tumblebooks is available both as an online website and as an app. The app requires you to log in with your library card. Once logged in, you can access a collection of animated children’s stories. If you access the website through a computer, no library card or login is required.
With every formal training and workshop canceled, educators everywhere are getting creative. Byrd is currently recording a series of virtual programs to introduce people to citizen science projects they can join to contribute to scientific research from home.
“As a librarian, I’ve worn many hats, but I never thought I would one day wear a film director, editor, and producer hat!” Byrd said when asked how she’s coping with the changes.
She is one of many library professionals in Southern California and beyond who are making a difference every day by adapting and innovating to our current circumstances.
