Internet keeps Cd'A Library open 24/7
Everybody knows "what" the Coeur d'Alene Public library is. It's that big brick building down by the park that's full of books. It's a great place to go for a program, to read, or do a little homework.
But sometimes when you need it, the Coeur d'Alene Public Library (CDAPL) is closed. Fortunately, if you have access to an Internet-linked computer, the CDAPL is always "open."
With your library card number, you can access your personal account to make use of various library services by going to www.cdalibrary.org. You can check to see when your books are due, if you owe a fine, and you can reserve books from the CDAPL or any of the 25 libraries that make up the Cooperative Information Network.
But wait - there's more.
Look at that list of links on the left side of the library website. These are the library's databases - Internet-based information sites which have been vetted for accuracy. Many are databases made available to all libraries in the state by the Idaho Commission for Libraries and agencies like the Department of Labor.
Other services are subscribed to by the CDAPL itself and are exclusive in this area to its website. Most of them require a username and password. Coeur d'Alene residents can receive these either by visiting or calling the library during open hours. Once you have these magic words, you have access 24 hours a day. Of course, when the library is open you can use a library computer to access this information.
Here are a few of the useful databases available:
Automotive Manuals: Technical information on many makes, years, and models of vehicles with detailed schematics and do-it-yourself instructions.
Career Information: This is your direct link to the Department of Labor with information about available jobs in Idaho and the skills you need to pursue a career in numerous fields.
Test Prep - GED, etc.: Whether you are preparing to take your SATs or working toward your GED, this site has preparation tests and study guides. For people who want to improve their computer skills this site has several tutorials for the most commonly used software.
Local Newspapers: This is a database subscription provided by the library that provides users with access to stories and other information published in the Coeur d'Alene Press and the Spokesman Review from the past six to 15 years, depending on the publication.
Databases are also available for state and federal tax forms, online reference, materials, genealogy, history and literature, children's nonfiction, and national newspapers and magazines.
It's all as close as your keyboard.
The library can also reach out and contact you by computer. If you have email as part of the contact information for your library card, you will receive email notifications when your books and other items are due and when items you have reserved become available.
If you want to receive news items about the free programs at the Coeur d'Alene library and others, send an email message to dtownsend@cdalibrary.org and you will be added to the list. You can request to be removed from the list at anytime. The library also has Facebook and Twitter pages. You can keep track by "liking" the library. For more information, please call 769-2315.