The McFarlen Library, located in Grand Blanc, Michigan, is a vibrant community hub that offers a wide range of resources, services, and programs for residents of all ages. With a collection of over 100,000 books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, and DVDs, the library is a treasure trove of knowledge and entertainment. The library's mission is to provide free and equal access to information, foster a love of reading, and promote lifelong learning.
History of the Library
The McFarlen Library has a rich history dating back to 1935, when it was first established as a small library in the Grand Blanc Township Hall. Over the years, the library has undergone several transformations, including a major expansion in 1994, which added more than 10,000 square feet of space and enabled the library to offer a wider range of services and programs. Today, the library is a state-of-the-art facility that features comfortable reading areas, study rooms, and a large community room that hosts author talks, book clubs, and other events.
Services and Programs
The McFarlen Library offers a variety of services and programs designed to meet the diverse needs of the community. These include:
- Children’s storytime and craft programs
- Teen book clubs and gaming events
- Adult author talks and book discussions
- Computer classes and technology workshops
- Interlibrary loan services, which allow patrons to borrow materials from other libraries
- Free Wi-Fi and public computers
- Meeting and study rooms that can be reserved for free
In addition to these services, the library also partners with local organizations and businesses to offer special programs and events, such as summer reading programs, author festivals, and literacy workshops.
| Program | Description |
|---|---|
| Summer Reading Program | A program that encourages children to read during the summer months, with prizes and rewards for participating |
| Author Festival | An annual festival that features author talks, book signings, and workshops |
| Literacy Workshop | A workshop that provides tips and strategies for improving reading and writing skills |
Collection and Resources
The McFarlen Library’s collection includes a wide range of materials, including fiction and nonfiction books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, and DVDs. The library also offers access to digital resources, such as OverDrive, which provides e-books and audiobooks for download, and Freegal, which offers free music downloads. Patrons can search the library’s catalog online and request materials for pickup at the library or at other locations in the Genesee District Library system.
Technology and Computing
The library offers a range of technology and computing resources, including public computers, printers, and scanners. Patrons can use the library’s computers to access the internet, work on documents, and print materials. The library also offers free Wi-Fi, which can be accessed from anywhere in the building.
In addition to these resources, the library also offers a variety of databases and online resources, including LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com), which provides online courses and tutorials on a range of topics, and Ancestry Library Edition, which offers access to genealogical resources and historical records.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The library is open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, Friday and Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Sunday from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
How do I get a library card?
+To get a library card, you can visit the library in person and provide proof of identity and residency. You can also apply for a card online and then visit the library to pick it up.
What types of programs and events does the library offer?
+The library offers a wide range of programs and events for adults, children, and teens, including author talks, book clubs, computer classes, and children’s storytime and craft programs.
