The Ontario City Library, located in Ontario, California, is a vital educational and cultural institution that serves the community with a wide range of resources, services, and programs. With a rich history dating back to 1895, the library has evolved to meet the changing needs of its patrons, providing access to information, promoting literacy, and fostering a love of learning.
History and Development
The Ontario City Library was established in 1895, with a collection of 500 books and a single librarian. Over the years, the library has grown and expanded, with several relocations and renovations. In 1968, the library moved to its current location on East D Street, featuring a modern facility with increased space for collections, programs, and services. Today, the library boasts a collection of over 200,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, DVDs, and digital resources.
Services and Programs
The Ontario City Library offers a diverse range of services and programs for patrons of all ages. These include:
- Children’s services, featuring storytime, book clubs, and literacy programs
- Teen services, including book clubs, gaming, and college preparation resources
- Adult services, such as author readings, book clubs, and technology training
- Research assistance, with access to online databases and interlibrary loan services
- Community outreach, with partnerships with local schools, organizations, and businesses
The library also provides a variety of digital resources, including e-books, audiobooks, and streaming services, such as OverDrive, Hoopla, and Kanopy. Patrons can access these resources from the comfort of their own homes, using their library cards and personal devices.
Collection and Resources
The Ontario City Library’s collection includes a wide range of materials, such as:
| Collection Category | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Books | 150,000 |
| Audiobooks | 10,000 |
| E-books | 50,000 |
| DVDs | 20,000 |
| Digital Resources | 100,000 |
The library also subscribes to numerous online databases, such as ProQuest and Gale, providing patrons with access to academic journals, newspapers, and magazines.
Technology and Innovation
The Ontario City Library has invested in various technologies to enhance the patron experience, including:
- Self-checkout machines, allowing patrons to quickly and easily borrow materials
- Public computers and laptops, providing access to the internet and digital resources
- Wi-Fi and mobile printing, enabling patrons to stay connected and productive
- Digital media labs, featuring equipment and software for video editing, audio production, and graphic design
Partnerships and Collaborations
The Ontario City Library partners with local organizations, schools, and businesses to promote literacy, education, and community engagement. These partnerships include:
- Ontario-Montclair School District, providing library services and resources to students and teachers
- Chaffey College, offering joint programs and services for students and community members
- Ontario Chamber of Commerce, supporting local businesses and economic development initiatives
Through these partnerships, the library is able to leverage resources, expertise, and funding to deliver high-quality programs and services that benefit the community.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The Ontario City Library is open Monday through Thursday from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm, Friday and Saturday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, and Sunday from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
How can I get a library card?
+To get a library card, simply visit the library with a valid form of identification and proof of residency, and fill out a registration form. Library cards are free for Ontario residents.
What digital resources are available through the library?
+The Ontario City Library offers a variety of digital resources, including e-books, audiobooks, streaming services, and online databases. These resources can be accessed using a library card and a personal device.
