Whether you are a job seeker looking for resources to land a new job, a parent looking for free activities for children, or a student doing research, your local library can help.
The Arlington Mansfield Library Partnership is celebrating National Library Week, April 8-14, by kicking off an Adult Library Card Campaign. The new adult library card features bright colors, a creative new design and a key "fob" for easier access.
The libraries in Arlington and Mansfield are also joining forces to offer seamless library services through a shared online catalog and access to a larger collection of materials. Downloadable digital collections, enhanced customer service and technology training are among the other shared resources.
"We're so excited to be celebrating National Library Week by shining a light on the partnership that has grown between our two libraries," said Cary Siegfried, director of libraries for the City of Arlington. "Libraries are no longer just about a building with books in it, they connect communities to information, to education and to ideas that inspire and delight. We're very fortunate that our libraries have connected the communities of Mansfield and Arlington in a very special way. We hope that everyone will come and join in our celebration this week."
This collaborative effort allows library patrons in both cities to access a wider collection of materials with a combined total of roughly 698,718 items. The shared digital collection of materials including downloadable audiobooks and e-books demonstrates the value and utility of digital collections. Public training in the use of e-readers and other personal audio devices are now being offered in Arlington and Mansfield Public Libraries.
Steve Standefer, Mansfield library director explains, "We are very enthusiastic about this new relationship between Mansfield and Arlington libraries. What we have begun is the future. With the loss of most state funding for public libraries, it could be much more difficult for us to provide the materials, resources, and services necessary for our growing populations. Though separate cities, Mansfield and Arlington are becoming one community, and teaming up as we are doing can do nothing but improve library services for us all."
For more information on library locations, hours, collections, services, and programs visit the Arlington Public Library web site at www.arlingtonlibrary.org or Mansfield Public Library at www.mansfield-tx.gov/departments/library.
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