Library to Reopen for Browsing March 15
Ames Public Library is moving into the next phase of reopening spaces to the public. Starting March 15, visitors will be able to browse collections on the first and second floors of the Library. Library staff will be available to answer basic reference and account questions. Computers will continue to be available for 30 minute sessions. Quick Picks, Grab and Go Bags, and @HOME Activity kits will remain conveniently located in the lobby. Play areas, study rooms, and meeting rooms will remain closed during this phase.
Visitors should limit their time in the building to 30 minutes s... Read Full Blog
Reading with a Vengeance
by Seth Warburton
I thought I knew myself as a reader. Then 2020 happened. Books I’d looked forward to reading fell flat. I brought home new books from authors I loved and never even cracked the covers. The shelves here at the Ames Public Library are full of good books, but I was having trouble finding one that fit my mood. Books had been my gateway to adventure, my method of experiencing all the exciting lives I would never live, in interesting places and times I could never visit. But when merely listening to the news could set ... Read Full Blog
Lobby Opens February 1
Starting February 1, Ames Public Library will switch from curbside service to holds pickup and “grab and go” services in the Library’s lobby.
While the lobby is open, visitors may check out their holds, Grab & Go bags, Quick Picks, and other items on display in the lobby. Visitors may also pick up @Home Activity Kits and tax forms (as they become available).
Computers will be available for use in the Library’s Auditorium during lobby hours. Due to the need for distancing, computer sessions will be limited.
The Library staff and Board of Trustees are dedicat... Read Full Blog
Library Receives Grant for Wi-Fi Hotspots
The Ames Public Library Friends Foundation (APLFF) is pleased to announce it has received a $6,000 grant from the Story County Community Foundation. These funds will support Ames Public Library’s efforts to provide computer and internet access to the Ames community, especially with increased need during remote learning.
In the past, Ames Public Library has helped meet this need by offering free internet, Wi-Fi, and computer access inside the Library. More recently, the Library has expanded access to mobile hotspots which are checked out for free and offer unlimited data and connec... Read Full Blog
Library Shifts to Curbside Service
In response to increased community spread of COVID-19, Ames Public Library will shift from “grab and go” lobby service to curbside service starting Sunday, November 22.
Curbside Holds Pickup will allow Library cardholders to request physical items like books and DVDs, then pick them up in front of the Library safely and easily. “We’ve got a new, flexible curbside system,” says Library Director Sheila Schofer. “Instead of making an appointment, you can come by when it’s convenient for you.”
After requesting items using the Library’s online catalog, customers need to ... Read Full Blog
Reopening the Library: Phase 1
***UPDATE: Face coverings are now required in City buildings including the Library.
Starting July 1, Ames Public Library’s lobby will be open for limited “grab and go” services.
We’re excited to welcome the community back into the building!
However, this first phase is a limited reopening of only the lobby for quick holds pickup and checkouts. The focus is on short visits and reduced interaction with staff for the health and safety of visitor and staff.
Please do not come into the Library if you or a member of your household are sick ... Read Full Blog
Curbside Holds Pickup May 2020
May 2020Ames Public Library has introduced a new, contact-free Curbside Holds Pickup service. Curbside Holds Pickup will allow Library cardholders to request physical items like books and DVDs, then schedule an appointment to pick them up in front of the Library.
Director Sheila Schofer says staff is excited to get materials moving out the door again. “We’ve been working hard to safely provide as many of our services as possible to as many people as possible. We were able to ramp up our online offerings quickly when this started, but we wanted to be very thoughtful in planning... Read Full Blog
How many holds can the holds shelf hold?
How many holds can the holds shelf hold? A holds shelf can only hold as many holds as the holds shelf currently holds!
We're sending out information to people with holds on these shelves to sign up for curbside pickup starting May 19. Once we've got a little breathing room, we'll open it up so anyone can place new holds and schedule curbside pickup!
... Read Full Blog
COVID-19 Closure Update
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Ames Public Library is closed for the safety of our visitors, staff, and community.
We are working with the City of Ames and health officials to plan for a gradual reintroduction of services.
Watch for updates as we approach mid-May.
... Read Full Blog
Wi-fi Hotspots
Need Internet? Check out a Hotspot!
Ames Public Library now has Wi-Fi Hotspots available for free checkout thanks to the Ames Public Library Friends Foundation! Borrow a Hotspot to use the internet at home or on the road. Hotspots use cellular networks to connect you to the internet, so you can get online from your computer, tablet, or other wireless devices.
Hotspots can be checked out for one week at a time. You can reserve a Hotspot through the Library's online catalog.
... Read Full Blog