“Part of the library’s mission is to provide resources, services, and programs that meet the needs of our diverse community,” said Assistant Director Ryan Johnson in this week’s O’Fallon Weekly column. “Along with that, we also strive to emphasize lifelong learning and encourage reading.”
Ryan continued saying that most often, patrons will browse the shelves – as in shopping at the grocery – looking for something that piques their interest. The library, he said, has people who help you shop!
“If you are ever unsure what to read next (or watch next), come in and ask one of our staff members. We love putting just the right item in your hands,” Ryan explained. Everyone has unique tastes and preferences, he said.
Sometimes you might be in the mood for a suspenseful thriller.
Other times you need a cozy romance.
We consider your preferences when helping you find your next book.
Ryan continued, that even if you are the “go it alone” type, we have you covered. “You can avoid human interaction and visit our blog. There you will find numerous reviews and recommendations.” The New Title Tuesday post features recent publications and the 
5-Star Friday post highlights a staff favorite. Ryan added, “Sometimes we mix in reviews for movies and music as well.”
Other content on the library blog includes “Meet the Staff Mondays” – the next one is scheduled for Monday, April 23 – and you’ll find some great reading suggestions there too.
Also through our website, you can visit the Reading Suggestions page. “There we link out to great review sources like BookPage and the New York Times Book Review. On that page, you can also access NoveList, a comprehensive tool to help you find your next favorite book,” Ryan explained. NoveList is also great for helping young readers find something captivating to read.
Distinguished Speaker Series
Speaking of captivating, Ryan invites you to join us for our third installment of the Distinguished Speaker Series. “This year the library and the O’Fallon Township High School have partnered to bring you professor and author Julie Smith, an expert in media literacy. With her expertise and her passion for researching how people share information online, Smith helps everyone from educators to parents, grandparents to students make sense of the digital world in which we live today.
The event will be held Tuesday, April 24, from 7 – 8 pm, OTHS Smiley Campus, 600 South Smiley Street. You can register and get more information on our website.
St. Clare Catholic School
Ryan also wants to thank Mrs. Schnabel’s 8th graders from St. Clare Catholic School for coming over on a mini-field trip. “While here,” he said, “they learned how to use the library’s many print and online resources to assist them with their research papers.”
Whether you need help with a homework assignment, writing a resume, or finding a great read, Ryan said, the library is here to serve.
As always, we thank the O’Fallon Weekly for supporting the library and our entire community.
The O'Fallon Public Library News 