POWER Library Has More Than You Think

Look I love Libby, let’s be clear about that, it is a brilliant resource for so many great reads. But I also have a confession to make… it doesn’t always have EVERYTHING I need. *GASP* I know. I will pause for you to compose yourself.

*DRAMATIC PAUSE FOR EFFECT*

BUT – just because Libby may not offer a book does not meant the library does not have it. We may OF COURSE have a physical copy (please come see us in person we miss you) but we may also have that eBook you need RIGHT NOW via one of the last places you may think to look. The State Library’s POWER Library!!!

POWER is a very underused brilliant offering that I have found often has those sneaky eBooks that Libby just does not offer. And it has an easy way to find all of their eBook offerings in one place!

I get it you are saying… surely you must be joking, Libby has everything I need!

Well, let me give you an example. I just bought a new house and I am looking for an easy to care for lawn. And do you know what one of the easiest to care for lawns is? Moss. Well, when I go to see about how to care for moss gardens this is what Libby had to say for itself.

Libby, sweetheart, no – not even remotely what I needed.

So, I went to the ever handy POWER Library E-Book Collection and did the same search and HUZZAH!

POWER, I appreciate you.

So, now all I had to do is click on the “Electronic Location” link and… TA-DA!

Okay, I know that doesn’t look very exciting but it is what I needed and was looking for – so it was a success!

What I am trying to say is that the library DOES have that eBook or resource you are looking for electronically it just may not always be on Libby. Give POWER a chance and see everything that the State has wonderfully bestowed upon us.

Drop us a message or shoot your message to the State librarians via POWER’s chat function, someone is always willing to help you find the resource you need even when it isn’t where you think.

-Adrianne, Northland Public Library

Continue ReadingPOWER Library Has More Than You Think

Good news, everyone! New databases for all!

Recently, staff evaluated two new Ebsco resources that aim to fill gaps in our electronic job and career resources: BlueCareer for career information about the trades, and FinancialFit for personal finance and financial literacy. These topics continue to be popular with patrons, and the new learning tools will enhance and support our work. 

We plan to have these resources up and running in early November, so it’s a good idea to get a sneak peek ahead of time. Let Hilary or Mary know if you have any questions. Both databases will be available to all Allegheny County library card holders. Check them out!

Blue Career  

This new workforce development platform from EBSCOlearning is the one-stop shop for members of your community to explore the skilled trades industry, start their careers, connect with employers and more. 

You can click here to view the experience of a job seeker or employer through short demo videos. 

FinancialFit  

FinancialFit includes a curated collection of personal finance lessons, videos and interactive tools that empower all members of our community — no matter their current financial situation — to make good financial decisions and achieve their financial goals. 

If you would like a more in-depth walk-through of both these resources, you can click here to view the recorded video presentation that Ebsco provided for the evaluation team. 

It’s our hope that these news tools will offer robust coverage for subject areas that weren’t previously addressed in our eResources. Let me know what you think!

-Mary, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh

Continue ReadingGood news, everyone! New databases for all!