The Anacortes Library, located in Anacortes, Washington, is a vital community hub that offers a wide range of services and resources to residents of all ages. With a strong commitment to promoting literacy, lifelong learning, and community engagement, the library has established itself as a beloved institution in the heart of the city. The library's mission is to provide free and equal access to information, ideas, and entertainment, fostering a love of reading, learning, and exploration among its patrons.
History and Development
The Anacortes Library has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. The first library in Anacortes was established in 1910, with a collection of just over 1,000 books. Over the years, the library has undergone several transformations, with significant expansions and renovations taking place in the 1960s and 1990s. Today, the library boasts a modern, 16,000-square-foot facility that features a diverse collection of over 60,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and CDs.
Services and Programs
The Anacortes Library offers a wide range of services and programs designed to meet the needs of its diverse community. These include storytime sessions for young children, book clubs and author readings for adults, and STEM-based activities for teens. The library also provides free Wi-Fi, public computers, and printing services, as well as a variety of databases and online resources that can be accessed from home. Additionally, the library partners with local organizations to offer programs such as job training, ESL classes, and health workshops.
| Program | Description |
|---|---|
| Storytime | Weekly sessions for children aged 0-5, featuring stories, songs, and crafts |
| Book Clubs | Monthly discussions for adults, focusing on a wide range of fiction and nonfiction titles |
| STEM Activities | Hands-on projects and experiments for teens, exploring science, technology, engineering, and math concepts |
Collections and Resources
The Anacortes Library’s collection is designed to meet the diverse needs of its community, with a wide range of materials available in multiple formats. The library’s catalog includes over 60,000 items, including fiction and nonfiction books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and CDs. The library also provides access to a variety of online resources, including databases, e-books, and digital media platforms.
Digital Media and Online Resources
In addition to its physical collection, the Anacortes Library offers a range of digital media and online resources that can be accessed from home or on the go. These include e-books and audiobooks, digital magazines and newspapers, and streaming services for music and video. The library also provides access to a variety of databases, including language learning tools, test preparation resources, and genealogy research platforms.
- OverDrive: a digital library of e-books and audiobooks
- Hoopla: a streaming service for music, movies, and TV shows
- LinkedIn Learning: an online learning platform offering courses and tutorials on a wide range of topics
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The Anacortes Library is open Monday through Thursday from 10am to 7pm, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 5pm, and Sunday from 1pm to 5pm.
How do I get a library card?
+To get a library card, simply visit the library with a valid form of identification and proof of address. Library cards are free for residents of Anacortes and surrounding communities.
What services does the library offer for children?
+The Anacortes Library offers a variety of services for children, including storytime sessions, summer reading programs, and activities such as LEGO clubs and craft classes.
