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Writer's pictureGinny Seegmiller

Library perks, services and all the things!



Welcome to Library Card Sign-Up and National Literacy Month!


Library Card Sign-up month has been held each September since 1987 to mark the beginning of the school year. During the month, the American Library Association and libraries nationwide unite in an effort to ensure that every child/adult can sign up for their own library card. Signing up for a library card is a crucial step toward academic achievement and lifelong learning!


I love how this coincides with fall, and "fall-ing" in love with reading as well! Here's a few of our different services, what I personally love about the library, and some of what we have to offer!


First off, did you know that your library card actually works at 19 different libraries not counting the Caldwell location? As a Lynx Consortium member, you can borrow or return items at most of the larger libraries in the valley such as Boise, Meridian, or Nampa! That is access to tons of books and services! Additionally, we offer "Interlibrary Loans" allowing us access to books in libraries across the United States! Can't find that one book from your childhood that doesn't seem to exist anymore? We can help you find it!


We also have a vast collection of video games for the XBox, PlayStation and Nintendo Switch, Board Games, and multiple take home kits that have sports equipment, musical equipment, tools, and resources for life changes and therapeutic tools as well.


In-House Services


Our Idaho room houses an extensive local history collection with yearbooks, historical photographs, local authors and publications, maps, oral history interviews, and much more!


Another great resource available in house is Ancestry.com! One of the easiest ways to begin your genealogical research, discover your history, and explore your heritage. Ancestry.com at the library makes tracing your ancestors simple without needing a subscription.



Digital Services


These services are accessible from anywhere, and all that you need is your Caldwell Library Card!


Freegal is a groovy app that gives you access to our streaming music collection! The free version of "Spotify" if you will. We have a wide variety of instantly accessible music with free weekly downloads. No check outs, no waiting, just music available for your listening ears!


Libby is a fabulous app that gives you access to eBooks and Audiobooks, which are sent straight to the app! No need to check-out audiobooks on CD when we have a simplified way for you to access your favorite audiobooks! The Libby app is also compatible with your Kindle device, though you can also read from your desktop, laptop, tablet, or phone. 


Similar to Duolingo or Rosetta Stone, this app is designed to help you learn another language! There are over 70 languages available and multiple courses, tools and guidance for learning a new language at your own pace.


With your library card you can access the Idaho Press Tribune, The Idaho Statesman and many other newspapers online. No subscription required; you just need a library card!


Digital Services for ALL Idaho Residents


As an Idaho resident, you also have access to the Lili which is home to over 150 databases! Highlights include:


Chilton Library is an extensive online auto repair database. Simply select your vehicle's make, model, and year to find service manuals complete with diagrams and step by step repair procedures.


NoveList Plus is an amazing resource for finding your next book. You can create wish lists, search themes, find book recommendations for different age ranges, explore award winning books, browse by genre, and find recommended "read-alikes". NoveList also has book reviews!


EBSCO Learning Express has study resources including flashcards, practice tests, and more for a wide variety of tests including the following exams: 

  • GED

  • ACT & SAT

  • ASVAB

  • Allied Health Certifications (Dental Assisting, Medical Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, etc)

  • Electrician and Plumber Licensing

  • NCLEX

  • GRE, LSAT, and MCAT

  • …and much more that we don’t have space to list in this blog post!


I could easily write a novel about all of the amazing resources we have at the library; I hope you can come in, browse, and find something that inspires you!






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