How to Manage Your Local Library

I gave up on just walking into the library and having my kids choose a book long ago. Not because there aren't great finds to be had, but because trying to supervise 4 kids with different interests led to "Scattered Mom Brain," which meant we came home with a whole lot of twaddle.

Then there's the fact that the library seldom had the exact books I needed, which meant I had to ask a librarian to order them, and then come back later. Now, I'm not complaining. I live 3 minutes from our branch, and we usually drop in a couple times a week. I love the library. I could spend a whole day there - just not with loud, active children. Even now that my kiddos are older, I still can't get any time in the adult section. So what's a mom to do?

First, rejoice and give thanks that you live in Steubenville. As industrial as it is, it has an absolutely FABULOUS library system.

Second, start keeping a list of books you want to order. I actually have a binder where I keep several book lists I've printed out. I also have several books about books, catalogs* (Emmanuel Books, Veritas, Sonlight, Bethlehem Books, etc.) and several internet links I've saved which review good books.

Then, make sure you have your library card number posted close by. Simply log onto PLSJC's website , log in, and order away. If the book is in a library in the state of Ohio, it'll arrive at your branch of choice within days. They'll call or email you when you have books waiting.

Viola! Enjoy reading.

A few caveats:

I request and check all cards out on my daughter's card - no late fees for kids under 14.

I asked at the desk that they not call me since they'd have to call everyday!

They do NOT own everything I want. The state of Ohio has weeded out a lot of older books, does not pride itself on its collection of Catholic authors, and has very few foreign translations of kid lit (an area I'd like to explore more - you know, what are the kids in Europe reading? Why not books set in Australia written by an Australian author kinda-thing).

At that point, if I REALLY want a book, then I go over to Franciscan's website (I have a card 'cause my hubbie works there, but I think they might let anyone local sign up for one. My use of it as last resort is because they charge - a lot - for overdue books, and knowing myself, something is going to be late. However, you open up a whole new world by exploring their connections to all the university libraries in the state).

* A note to catalog companies and authors: Just because I look at catalogs to get book ideas doesn't mean I don't order from them. In fact, most often I preview a book before I buy a personal copy (if I bought everything, I'd go broke, and my 10 bookshelves are already over-laden). But in appreciation for the service my favorite catalogs do me, I make an effort to buy from them every year.