myMOpd has always loved libraries!

      As a public defender I often find myself using public libraries and pointing clients to them as well.  I will meet clients in libraries near their homes so they don’t need to drive or find a ride to Farmington. I will suggest clients use computers, printers, and scanners at libraries. And I will always sing the praises of Librarians who never fail to help me or my clients find information, etc.

      While you can read my views of libraries below (in blue), I want to provide the following links to library websites in the Public Defender’s 24th District:

• Farmington, St. Francois County–  https://www.farmington-mo.gov/library 

From the library website:

Who is able to get a library card? Anyone may get a [Farmingon] library card. Cards are free for anyone living in the city limits of Farmington, students attending a Farmington school, or individuals aged 60 or older. Anyone outside the city limits of Farmington can get a card for $15 per year, per household.

How do I get a [Farmingon] library card? To get a library card, you must come to the library and present a photo ID, and one thing with your name and current mailing address. Possible items include a piece of mail, a check, voter registration card, or hunting and fishing license.

Ste. Genevieve County – https://sgclib.org/
      *County residents get a free card > https://sgclib.org/get-a-card/ 

• Washington County – https://thewashingtoncountylibrary.com/
• Reynolds County – https://www.reynoldscountylibrary.missouri.org/ 
• Ozark Regional Library (Ironton, Fredericktown, Annapolis, Viburnum) – https://ozarkregional.org/ 

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MSPD’s Holistic Defense Services (HDS) has created a “how to” regarding libraries noting that:

Libraries are for more than just reading a book. Did you know that some provide notary services, can provide help with your GED or homework assignments, and much more.

Here MSPD HDS’s info how to get your library card.

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Here is myMOpd’s take on Libraries>

Public libraries serve everyone!  They are a great equalizer. They have great books*, wonderful music CDs**, access to research materials***, DVD movies****.  Libraries have computers, printers, scanners, and some have game consoles. Libraries also have programs for patrons of all ages (such a book readings, art projects for children, speakers, etc.)  And now with technology a library card give you access to thousands of digital books (with  MissouriLibraries2Go, the Libby App, etc.), digital music, and movies you can borrow from your phone! 

Many libraries serve a meeting places. They have quiet study rooms, breakrooms  to eat , others have music rooms to play instruments you can borrow, etc. And most have good meeting areas for groups… and I often meet clients and local libraries. 

    And perhaps most significantly, libraries have Librarians! They are dedicated to serving library patrons and almost always able to help those needing assistance.

    Libraries are democracies’ great equalizer. Rich and poor have access to the same information and resources. Please use them!

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Footnotes

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