Blog Entries

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 2020

Ames 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