The Porter County Library is a valuable resource for residents of Porter County, Indiana, offering a wide range of materials, services, and programs for people of all ages. Whether you're a student, a researcher, or simply someone who loves to read, the library has something for everyone. In this article, we'll explore the various resources available at the Porter County Library, including its collections, services, and programs, and provide tips on how to get started with using the library.
Library Collections
The Porter County Library has an extensive collection of materials, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and CDs. The library’s collection includes fiction and non-fiction books for adults, children, and young adults, as well as a large collection of large print and audio books. The library also offers a variety of digital collections, including e-books, audiobooks, and streaming services, such as OverDrive and Hoopla.
In addition to its physical and digital collections, the Porter County Library also offers a variety of online resources, including databases, genealogy resources, and language learning tools. Some of the notable online resources available through the library include ancestry.com, HeritageQuest, and Rosetta Stone. These resources can be accessed from the library's website, and many of them can be used from the comfort of your own home with a valid library card.
Services for Children and Teens
The Porter County Library offers a variety of services and programs specifically for children and teens. The library’s children’s department has a large collection of picture books, early readers, and chapter books, as well as a variety of puzzles, games, and activities. The library also offers a number of programs for children, including storytime, book clubs, and craft classes.
For teens, the library offers a variety of services and programs, including book clubs, movie nights, and gaming events. The library also has a large collection of young adult books, including popular series and new releases. Teens can also use the library's online resources, such as Teen Health and Wellness and Opposing Viewpoints in Context, to help with research and homework.
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| OverDrive | A digital collection of e-books and audiobooks |
| Hoopla | A streaming service offering music, movies, and TV shows |
| Ancestry.com | A genealogy resource providing access to historical records and documents |
Getting a Library Card
To use the Porter County Library’s resources and services, you’ll need to get a library card. Library cards are free for residents of Porter County, and they can be obtained by visiting the library in person and providing proof of residency. You can also apply for a library card online, but you’ll need to visit the library to pick up your card and provide proof of residency.
Once you have a library card, you can use it to check out materials, access online resources, and participate in library programs and services. You can also use your library card to request materials from other libraries through the Evergreen Indiana consortium, which allows you to borrow materials from libraries across the state.
Programs and Events
The Porter County Library offers a variety of programs and events for people of all ages, including author readings, book clubs, and craft classes. The library also hosts a number of events and programs for children, including storytime, movie nights, and puppet shows. You can find out about upcoming programs and events by visiting the library’s website or by following the library on social media.
In addition to its programs and events, the Porter County Library also offers a number of services, including interlibrary loan, test proctoring, and career counseling. The library also has a variety of meeting rooms and study spaces available for public use, including a makerspace with 3D printing and other technology.
What do I need to get a library card?
+To get a library card, you’ll need to provide proof of residency in Porter County. You can do this by visiting the library in person and showing a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or utility bill.
How do I access the library’s online resources?
+To access the library’s online resources, you’ll need to have a valid library card and be logged in to the library’s website. You can log in by clicking on the “Log In” button at the top of the page and entering your library card number and PIN.
What types of programs and events does the library offer?
+The Porter County Library offers a variety of programs and events for people of all ages, including author readings, book clubs, and craft classes. The library also hosts a number of events and programs for children, including storytime, movie nights, and puppet shows.
