KDL Weblog » Research & Computer Tips

Free eBooks and Open Library

Beth — Fri, 17 May 2013 12:30:43 +0000

The use of eBooks is increasing every year, so a new source of free eBooks is always welcome. OpenLibrary.org is a combination library/wiki site which can be edited by anyone but allows books to be checked out or downloaded for a two-week period. The Library of Michigan is one of many libraries across the globe to allow OpenLibrary.org to scan their collection. Of course, copyright is followed so you will not be able to read the latest Patterson book, but the page does link to WorldCat, which lists libraries that own a physical copy of the book.

Check out the site and tell us what you think in the comments below.

Free Computer & Technology Classes

Sheri — Mon, 06 May 2013 13:30:22 +0000

Whether you’re a computer novice or looking to update your skills, KDL’s free computer classes can help you learn something new! Registration opens today for our June classes:

Computer Basics: Mousing and More
Computer Basics: Where’s My Stuff?
Digging into Your Past: Online Genealogy Research
(Bring Your Own Laptop) (pre-registration not required)
Gadgets: B.Y.O. eReader & Tablet Users Group
(pre-registration not required)
Internet: Email Basics
Internet: Getting Started on Craigslist
Internet: Internet Basics & More
Internet: Wikipedia, the Encyclopedia for Everyone!
Microsoft Excel Basics I, II & III
Microsoft PowerPoint Basics
Microsoft Word Basics I & II
Senior Wireless Workshop (pre-registration not required)
Speak to a Geek (pre-registration not required)

For class descriptions and schedule, please see our brochure or search our events calendar.

Unless otherwise noted, pre-registration is required and will begin the month before the scheduled classes on the first Monday of each month for KDL cardholders and the second Monday for non-KDL cardholders (if space is still available):

June classes: Registration begins Monday, May 6 for KDL cardholders
(Monday, May 13 for non-KDL cardholders)
July classes: Registration begins Monday, June 3 for KDL cardholders
(Monday, June 10 for non-KDL cardholders)
August classes: Registration begins Monday, July 1 for KDL cardholders
(Monday, July 8 for non-KDL cardholders)

To register, please call 616-784-2007.

Summer 2013 KDL Kaleidoscope

Sheri — Wed, 01 May 2013 19:05:21 +0000

Are you already making plans for summer? Don’t forget about all the FREE programs available at the library! The Summer 2013 issue of the KDL Kaleidoscope program guide is now available online. You’ll find all you need to know about summer events and get some great information on library resources and staff recommendations. (Printed guides will also be available in the branches by mid-May.)

It’s sure to be an exciting summer at KDL, and you don’t want to miss a thing. Check out the KDL Kaleidoscope today!

Genealogy Wiki: Record Selection Tables

Beth — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 17:00:00 +0000

Since familysearch.org recently changed the layout of its site, this is a good time to spend time poking around. One area I haven’t used much is the research wiki. As you probably know, a wiki is a site that can be updated or added to by anyone (at least if you have registered). This wiki has a few primary categories: Beginning Genealogy, Find Records by Place and Research tools. Each category has many different articles by topic.

While checking out the Research tools, I came across something I had not heard of before: Record Selection Tables. A Record Selection table is a guide to help determine what records to search for specific information. At this time, there are 10 different tables based on region. So if you are looking for someone’s maiden name in the U.S., there is a list of record types that might provide that information. Each record is then linked to the wiki entry.

Let us know in the comments if you give these tables a try!

Englehardt Branch Reopens 4:00 PM

Sheri — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 12:52:19 +0000

The flood waters came close, but the Englehardt branch in Lowell remained dry this weekend! Staff will be working hard today to put all the furniture and materials back in place, and the branch will reopen at 4:00 today (Monday, April 22).

Thank you to everyone for your patience and well wishes as we dealt with this unprecedented situation.

Early Lit Bits: App Review

Ali — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 20:00:33 +0000

Looking for a fun app that helps teach your child the letters of the alphabets and their shapes? Letter School is a fun and entertaining app where kids are given clear direction on how to trace letters and numbers by following the shape. They are rewarded with fun sounds and animations that will keep them entertained as they learn. Help your child trace over the letters with the index finger of their writing hand. Tracing letters using a finger is a first step in learning to write letters and helps build tactile memory and fine motor control. This app is available in a free lite version and is $2.99 for the full version.

This article originally appeared in our Early Lit Bits eNewsletter. Read the most recent issue online or sign up to receive this monthly update highlighting early literacy tips and resources for parents and caregivers.

Kindle eBooks Available on Mobile Devices

Sheri — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 14:15:09 +0000

Good news for Kindle App users — OverDrive’s latest update to our eBook site has made KDL’s collection of free Kindle eBooks available to download directly from mobile devices! Previously, if you wanted to checkout an eBook in Kindle format, you would have to use a “regular” computer to complete the checkout, then direct Amazon to send the Kindle book to your mobile app. Now, the entire process, from browsing to checkout to delivery to your app, can be completed entirely on your iPhone, iPod Touch, or Android device.

For complete instructions on downloading Kindle eBooks, see our step-by-step guide. Questions? Fill out our help form or give us a call at 616-784-2007.

Happy Downloading!

Englehardt Branch Closed Friday-Saturday

Sheri — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 16:33:22 +0000

Due to the threat of flooding, KDL’s Englehardt branch in Lowell will be CLOSED on Friday, April 19 and Saturday, April 20. During this time, Englehardt’s book drop will not be accessible. Items may be returned to the Alto, Cascade Township or any other KDL branch.

Friday morning’s Rhyme Time Music and Movement program at 10:30 AM is CANCELED. However, the History of Barbie with Afternoon Tea program on Saturday, April 20 at 2:00 PM will PROCEED as it is to be held at the Lowell Township Hall (2910 Alden Nash SE).

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

UPDATE (Friday, April 19): The Englehardt branch is still dry thus far. All items on low shelves have been moved as a precaution. All current HOLDS for Englehardt patrons will be available for pickup at the Alto branch during the Emergency Closing period. (Alto is closed on Fridays, but will be open from 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM on Saturday.)

Facebook Class at Plainfield Canceled

Sheri — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 14:22:02 +0000

The Facebook Basics class scheduled at the Plainfield Township branch tonight has been CANCELED due to a staff emergency. Those interested in this class may call 616-784-2007 to register for a future session.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Children’s Book-A-Day Recommendations

Beth — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 17:30:00 +0000

There are many book-a-day calendars that can be purchased, but few of these recommend youth books. The Children’s Book-A-Day Almanac website can help cover those books. The website features one youth book recommendation per day, with information about the book as well as “this day in history” information. It also has an archive with books searchable by age, subject and more.

The website doesn’t appear to be updated every day, but if you are just starting out on the site, there will be at least 350 new books for you to view! The most recent one I found was from April 1, 2013. Since April is Poetry month, Stardines Swim High Across the Sky and Other Poems was the featured title.

If you find a great book to share from the almanac, share that title (and day) below!