1 million

Overdrive is certainly appreciated by our patrons.

On August 16, 2018 (at 7:00 pm, as recorded by a certain justifiably overjoyed observer), we reached a million check-outs in Overdrive for the year-to-date in Allegheny County.  In 2017, this didn’t happen until October 2, and it was in November back in 2016.  We are on track to reach over 1.5 million for the year.

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Continue Reading1 million

It’s due tomorrow?? Check Overdrive!

Although Summer Reading has ended and things may seem to have quieted down at the library, services for students are now in full swing. Libraries partner with their local school districts by providing required reading books and other materials, but don’t forget the e-Collection, especially for last-minute needs! A recent survey by Overdrive shows that teachers are increasingly using eBooks and other online materials in the classroom. As a subscriber to Overdrive with a substantial collection, we can offer both teachers and students free access to their library 24/7. When someone comes in needing a book for a “report that’s due tomorrow!” or the like, I will 1) see if we have a copy in stock (they’ll be lucky), 2) see if there’s a copy at a library close by, and 3) see if it’s available on Overdrive. Usually we’ll be able to get them access that day, especially for those who’ve left off their assignments until the last minute and don’t have time to wait for it to arrive in delivery. It’s the perfect time for a “teaching moment” too – I let them know that since they have access to Overdrive and other eResources from home, they don’t have to wait to come to the library next time!

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Heather Auman
Western Allegheny Community Library

Continue ReadingIt’s due tomorrow?? Check Overdrive!

Better Business knowledge now at your PA Library!

BusinessInsightEssentials

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We all wish we knew more about the business world, don’t we? Well now thanks to the PA POWER Library we have a great resource to help us! Gale Business Insights: Essentials is one of the new databases brought to us by the state. Business Insights: Essentials has company reports, charts, diagrams, industry reports, and a glossary.

Business Insights: Essentials allows your patrons access to both U.S. company financial reports and company histories. There are charts which allow patrons to compare both companies and industries.

Business Insights: Essentials does offer an advance search feature that is easy to use for those interested in narrowing their business related searches. It also gives a very handy breakdown of the different information you can find on a company once you have completed your search.

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Business Insights: Essentials can aid both you and your patrons when trying to be better informed about the business world around you. Help your patrons be better business minded individuals!

  ~ Adrianne Krings, Northland Public Library

 

Continue ReadingBetter Business knowledge now at your PA Library!