Online Library

Finding it a bit too cold to venture outside to visit the library? Do not fret - you still have access to online library materials at http://www.missoulapubliclibrary.org/ -- your portal to The Missoula Public Library's Virtual Branch Library.

From the homepage you have access to MontanaLibrary2Go downloadable audio book service, a self-paced online Web 2.0 class, 24-hr Reference service, and online book clubs. You can also click the "e-Databases" link to view a listing of online resources available free of charge with your library card. Some popular databases include:

• NovelList Plus -find a good book to read. Take a look at the Author Read-alikes, "What We're Reading"suggestions, Book Discussion Guides, BookTalks, and Annotated Book Lists.
  
• Heritage Quest -research your family history
  
• Auto Repair Reference Center -find automotive information dating back to 1945 for all major makes and models of vehicles. Also includes basic care and repair tips and a troubleshooting guide
• Alexander Street Press Online Music -create playlists and listen online for free to music from the Classical Music Library, Smithsonian Global Sound, or African American Song. For a fee you can download music to your PC.

These are just a few examples of online resources you have access to from home. To find more, explore the library's homepage or call us at 721-BOOK.

Post a comment & tell us what online library resources you use from home!

Free Online Classes

We invite you to join our new, free online classes designed to encourage our patrons to explore Web 2.0 technologies. If you visit our website, you’ve seen our Blog, our Tweets and our Flickr pages. Now, we’re offering you a self-paced online program to help you explore and learn about new Web 2.0 technology and how it can be useful to you in life and in your relationship with your library. Anyone can participate, whether you are familiar with Web 2.0 or if you’re totally new to the social networking world . You can explore Communications 2.0, Twitter, Social Networking Sites, RSS feeds and other “Cool Tools”. Are you ready to get started? First, please register @ mplweb204u.pbworks.com and when you receive your confirmation email, you can begin a fun, rewarding online experience!

Equipment Needed: A computer with Internet access, a sound card to listen to podcasts, headphones (if you plan to participate in a public area), Quicktime or Windows Media Player for videos. And, remember you can also participate while you're in Web Alley!

What are you waiting for? Sign up today and have fun!