The West Des Moines Public Library is a treasure trove of free resources, offering a wide range of services and materials to its patrons. From books and media to programs and events, the library is a vital part of the community. However, many people may not be aware of the full extent of the resources available to them. In this article, we will explore 10+ West Des Moines Public Library hacks for free resources, helping you to get the most out of your library experience.
Discovering Free Resources at the West Des Moines Public Library
The West Des Moines Public Library provides access to a vast array of free resources, including e-books, audiobooks, music, movies, and online courses. With a library card, patrons can borrow materials, attend programs and events, and utilize the library’s research tools and databases. Some of the most notable free resources available at the library include:
- OverDrive: a digital library platform offering e-books and audiobooks for borrowing
- Hoover’s Company Records: a database providing company profiles, financial data, and industry analysis
- Lynda.com: an online learning platform offering courses and tutorials on a wide range of topics
- Kanopy: a streaming service providing access to independent films, documentaries, and classic movies
Accessing Free E-books and Audiobooks
The West Des Moines Public Library offers a vast collection of e-books and audiobooks through its digital library platform, OverDrive. Patrons can borrow and download e-books and audiobooks to their devices, making it easy to enjoy their favorite titles on the go. To access free e-books and audiobooks, follow these steps:
- Visit the West Des Moines Public Library website and click on the “Digital Library” tab
- Log in with your library card number and PIN
- Browse the available titles and select the e-book or audiobook you want to borrow
- Download the title to your device using the OverDrive app
Utilizing Free Online Courses and Tutorials
The West Des Moines Public Library offers free online courses and tutorials through its subscription to Lynda.com. With a library card, patrons can access a wide range of courses on topics such as business, technology, and creative skills. To utilize free online courses and tutorials, follow these steps:
- Visit the West Des Moines Public Library website and click on the “Online Learning” tab
- Log in with your library card number and PIN
- Browse the available courses and select the one you want to take
- Follow the instructions to access the course and start learning
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| OverDrive | Digital library platform offering e-books and audiobooks |
| Hoover's Company Records | Database providing company profiles, financial data, and industry analysis |
| Lynda.com | Online learning platform offering courses and tutorials |
| Kanopy | Streaming service providing access to independent films, documentaries, and classic movies |
Additional West Des Moines Public Library Hacks
In addition to the resources mentioned above, the West Des Moines Public Library offers a number of other services and materials that can be useful to patrons. Some of these include:
- Free museum passes: the library offers free passes to local museums and attractions, making it easy to explore the community’s cultural offerings
- Test preparation materials: the library provides access to test preparation materials, including study guides and online courses, to help patrons prepare for exams and certification tests
- Genealogy research tools: the library offers a number of genealogy research tools, including databases and online resources, to help patrons research their family history
Staying Up-to-Date with Library News and Events
The West Des Moines Public Library offers a number of ways for patrons to stay up-to-date with library news and events. Some of these include:
- Newsletter: the library publishes a monthly newsletter that highlights upcoming events, new resources, and other library news
- Social media: the library has a presence on social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, where patrons can stay up-to-date on library news and events
- Website: the library’s website is a great resource for finding information about library services, programs, and events
What is the West Des Moines Public Library’s lending policy?
+The West Des Moines Public Library’s lending policy varies depending on the type of material being borrowed. For more information, visit the library’s website or contact the library directly.
How do I access the West Des Moines Public Library’s digital collection?
+To access the West Des Moines Public Library’s digital collection, visit the library’s website and click on the “Digital Library” tab. Log in with your library card number and PIN to browse and borrow e-books, audiobooks, and other digital materials.
Can I use the West Des Moines Public Library’s resources if I don’t have a library card?
+Some of the West Des Moines Public Library’s resources, such as the library’s website and online databases, can be accessed without a library card. However, to borrow materials or access certain digital resources, a library card is required. Visit the library’s website or contact the library directly to learn more about obtaining a library card.
