EDITOR’S NOTE: This is the fifth in a series of columns penned by Dorr Township Library Board President Rachel Vote explaining the Aug. 6 request for one mill for the library.
Over the past decade, the needs of the community have changed, and the Dorr Township Library has worked diligently to adapt to these changes to offer programs, services and materials that appeal to everyone.
Besides access to all the books, movies and periodicals on the shelves, the library is part of a consortium that allows patrons to check out materials from other libraries in our area. Through this site patrons can find a book, e-book, or audio book the Dorr Library may not have. The hard copy of the book will be delivered to the library at the patron’s request.
An e-book or audio book will be delivered electronically to the patron through the Overdrive app, which is free to install on your phone or computer. Patrons can also access magazines and audio books digitally through RBdigital here. Increasing access to digital materials along with paper copies of materials allows patrons access to thousands of more items without having to travel.
The Dorr Township Library also offers free online resources. Gale Courses provides more than 360 six-week long, online programs taught by college instructors. Courses offered support business professionals, such as business law, human resources, management, manufacturing, and marketing, computer and technology courses that suit skill levels from beginner to advanced, courses in parenting, language & arts, hobbies, a multitude of health and wellness offerings, and select courses that offer continuing education credits.
Patrons can also access ancestry.com for free at the library if they are curious about their family lineage. Learning a new language for free is also an option through Mango Languages. Vitality packs are available to check out if you’re looking for information on health or technology. Our packs include information on diabetes, estate planning, how to use an iPad, arthritis, fibromyalgia and more.
Besides offering a plethora of materials and online services, the library offers a variety of programs. Patrons have the opportunity to take arts and crafts classes usually for free, but a couple have a small materials fee. These classes can include painting, bead art, calming jars, pillow making, string art, and keychain making.
Makerspace kits are activities in a box you can checkout and have fun with at home. If you want to meet new people and share one of your interests, you could attend Primetime storytime, Yu-Gi-Oh Duel Club, or Book Club.
The library is open to other requests for classes, programs or clubs from patrons, so stop by and let us know what kind of programs we can offer to interest you!
