10+ Simsbury Library Secrets For Faster Learning

The Simsbury Library, located in the heart of Simsbury, Connecticut, is a hub of knowledge and learning, offering a wide range of resources and services to its patrons. As a center of education and community engagement, the library provides numerous opportunities for individuals to expand their knowledge and skills. In this article, we will delve into 10+ Simsbury Library secrets for faster learning, exploring the various tools and techniques available to library users.

Introduction to the Simsbury Library

The Simsbury Library has a rich history, dating back to 1874, and has since evolved to meet the changing needs of its community. With a collection of over 100,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and CDs, the library offers a diverse range of materials to support learning and personal growth. The library’s mission is to provide free and equal access to information, foster a love of reading, and promote lifelong learning.

Secret 1: Utilize the Library’s Online Resources

The Simsbury Library provides access to a wealth of online resources, including databases, e-books, and digital media. Patrons can access these resources from the comfort of their own homes, ²⁴⁄₇, using their library card. Some of the notable online resources include OverDrive for e-books and audiobooks, Hoover’s Company Records for business research, and Mango Languages for language learning.

These online resources can be accessed through the library's website, and many of them offer remote access, allowing patrons to use them from anywhere with an internet connection. This is particularly useful for individuals who prefer to learn at their own pace or have limited time to visit the library in person.

Secret 2: Take Advantage of the Library’s Programs and Events

The Simsbury Library offers a variety of programs and events for adults, children, and teens, designed to promote learning, literacy, and community engagement. These programs include author talks, book clubs, children’s storytime, and educational workshops. By attending these events, patrons can meet new people, learn from experts, and stay up-to-date on the latest topics and trends.

Some of the notable programs and events include the Author Series, which features renowned authors discussing their latest works, and the STEM Club, which provides hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math activities for children and teens.

Secret 3: Explore the Library’s Digital Media Collection

The Simsbury Library’s digital media collection includes a wide range of e-books, audiobooks, music, and movies, which can be accessed using a library card. Patrons can borrow and download digital media using services like OverDrive and Hoopla, allowing them to enjoy their favorite titles on their devices.

This digital media collection is particularly useful for individuals who prefer to consume media on-the-go or have limited space for physical materials. The library's digital media collection also includes a collection of classic e-books, which provides access to timeless works of literature.

Secret 4: Use the Library’s Research Databases

The Simsbury Library provides access to a range of research databases, including EBSCO, ProQuest, and JSTOR. These databases offer in-depth information on various subjects, including business, history, science, and literature. Patrons can use these databases to conduct research, write papers, and stay informed on current events.

Some of the notable research databases include the Business Source Premier database, which provides access to business journals, magazines, and newspapers, and the ScienceDirect database, which offers a collection of scientific and technical journals and books.

Secret 5: Get Help from the Library’s Staff

The Simsbury Library’s staff are knowledgeable and experienced, and are always willing to help patrons find the resources they need. Whether it’s researching a topic, finding a book, or using a library database, the staff are available to provide guidance and support. Patrons can ask for help in person, by phone, or via email.

The library's staff also offer one-on-one research assistance, which provides personalized help with research projects and papers. This service is particularly useful for students, researchers, and individuals who need help navigating complex topics.

Secret 6: Explore the Library’s Local History Collection

The Simsbury Library’s local history collection includes a wide range of materials related to the history of Simsbury and the surrounding area. This collection includes books, manuscripts, photographs, and other documents, which provide a unique insight into the region’s past. Patrons can use this collection to research their family history, learn about local landmarks, and explore the history of the area.

Some of the notable items in the local history collection include the Simsbury Historical Society's archives, which provide access to historical documents and records, and the Simsbury Gazette, which is a collection of local newspapers dating back to the 19th century.

Secret 7: Use the Library’s Interlibrary Loan Service

The Simsbury Library’s interlibrary loan service allows patrons to borrow materials from other libraries, both within and outside of Connecticut. This service provides access to a vast collection of materials, including books, articles, and other resources, which may not be available at the Simsbury Library. Patrons can request materials online or in person, and the library’s staff will arrange for their delivery.

This service is particularly useful for researchers, students, and individuals who need access to specialized materials. The library's interlibrary loan service also includes document delivery, which provides electronic delivery of articles and other documents.

Secret 8: Attend the Library’s Book Clubs

The Simsbury Library offers a range of book clubs for adults, children, and teens, which provide a great opportunity to meet new people, discuss books, and learn from others. The book clubs are led by experienced facilitators, who guide the discussions and provide insights into the books. Patrons can attend book clubs in person or online, depending on their preferences.

Some of the notable book clubs include the Adult Book Club, which focuses on fiction and non-fiction books, and the Children's Book Club, which explores popular children's books and authors.

Secret 9: Use the Library’s Test Prep Resources

The Simsbury Library provides access to a range of test prep resources, including study guides, practice tests, and online courses. These resources are designed to help patrons prepare for exams, such as the SAT, ACT, and GRE, and can be accessed online or in person. The library’s test prep resources also include career development tools, which provide guidance on resume writing, job searching, and interviewing skills.

Some of the notable test prep resources include the Princeton Review study guides, which provide comprehensive preparation for standardized tests, and the LearningExpress online courses, which offer interactive learning and practice tests.

Secret 10: Explore the Library’s Museum Pass Program

The Simsbury Library’s museum pass program provides free or discounted admission to a range of museums and cultural institutions in Connecticut. Patrons can borrow museum passes using their library card, and enjoy discounted admission to popular attractions, such as the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art and the Connecticut Science Center.

This program is particularly useful for families, students, and individuals who want to explore the state's cultural and educational resources without incurring significant costs. The library's museum pass program also includes discounts on performances and events, which provide access to a range of cultural and entertainment activities.

Secret 11: Use the Library’s Technology Resources

The Simsbury Library provides access to a range of technology resources, including computers, printers, and scanners. Patrons can use these resources to work on projects, print documents, and access the internet. The library’s technology resources also include wireless internet access, which allows patrons to connect their devices to the library’s network.

Some of the notable technology resources include the public computers, which provide access to Microsoft Office and other software, and the 3D printer, which allows patrons to create complex models and designs.