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OPINION: Ten reasons to visit the Castlegar Library

If it’s been a while since you visited the Castlegar Library, you might be surprised at the great variety of programs and services available
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THe Castlegar Public Library has lots to offer. (Betsy Kline/Castlegar News)

If it’s been a while since you visited the Castlegar Library, you might be surprised to learn what a great variety of programs and services we have available for patrons of all ages. The library is no longer just a book warehouse — we are an information hub, a meeting place for the community and a safe, welcoming space accessible to all.

Here are ten good reasons to come by and catch up with what’s happening at the library and find out what we can do for you:

• The library is free. Anyone who lives in the city of Castlegar or Regional District Areas H south, I and J can apply for a library card at no cost.
• The library can come to you. If you are unable to visit the library in person because of illness or mobility issues, our outreach librarian can bring items to you. Call the library at 250-365-6611 to find out more.
• You have options. In addition to our regular collection of fiction and non-fiction, we carry large print books, books on CD, DVDs, graphic novels and magazines for children, teens and adults. We also have a loanable “library of things” that includes radon detectors, a bat pack, Yoto players and much more. 
• We can order books from anywhere (almost). If we don’t have a book you want in our collection, we can request a title from many public libraries in B.C. and have it delivered to us.
• You can use your library card anywhere. On a road trip and running out of things to read? You can use your Castlegar library card to take items out at another B.C. library and return them to us when you get home. 
• We are literacy warriors. Library programs for babies, toddlers and school-aged kids encourage and reinforce the joy of reading in young people. You can find out more about kids’ programming on our website, castlegar.bc.libraries.coop.
• You don’t need a book to be a reader. Your Castlegar library membership gives you access to the Libby app, which has hundreds of e-books, audiobooks and magazines available for downloading to your phone, tablet or e-reader.
• We are tech savvy. Need to print a resume? Access your email? Apply for a passport? The library has public computers and a printer that can be used for all those things, and more.
• We have space, if you need it. The Castlegar Library has a large meeting room available for rent to individuals and community groups, as well as quiet spaces that can be used for studying, knitting, doing a crossword or just relaxing.
• We know our stuff. Our library staff can assist you with book recommendations, research questions, resolving tech issues and even local restaurant reviews.

Now that you know a bit more about us, why not drop by to sign up for a library card (for free!), and check us out in person? See you at the library!