In honor of National Library Week, Turning the Page had the opportunity to sit down (virtually!) with Shilo Jefferson, the Director of Legler Regional Library and ask a few questions about the branch, its programs, and how Chicago Public Library is supporting families at home. Named after Henry E. Legler (1861-1917), former chief librarian of Chicago Public Library, Legler began as the first regional branch of the Chicago Public Library and first opened on October 9, 1920. The branch recently celebrated its 100th year anniversary, as well as extensive renovations adding a large number of resources to the community.
Q: What resources is the library offering to help families during COVID?
A: In general, we’re offering CPL at Home, but we also are available by email, phone call, or chat. We have our online Homework Help that we offer Monday through Thursday, 3pm to 7pm CST and Sunday, 1:30pm to 4:30pm CST where students can log on through Zoom and have access to homework help with a teacher.
We’re also offering a plethora of virtual programming across the city, throughout the different branches, as well as e-book, audiobooks & magazine databases online and you can get a library eCard to access them. Overall, there’s lots of resources that you can access from home!
Q: How are YOUMedia sites adapting to COVID? Can you still borrow laptops or access them at the library?
A: Douglass has a smaller YOUMedia space and can’t support social distancing at this time, so it is currently closed. However, the YOUMedia space at Legler is still open! Visitors can still use the Wi-Fi, check out books, and access computers, but we’re currently not checking out laptops at our branches. A few branches also offer Wi-Fi hotspots on loan, but there is currently a waitlist.
Q: What are some of the reasons why more people don’t have a library card?
A: Lack of information is a possible reason. Some people don’t know that getting a library card is free. It’s easier for many people to just use guest passes to access the computers. Some visitors may have a fear of giving the library their personal information, but that information is only used by the library and is not shared with anyone.
Q: How can people get a library card?
A: The process for getting a library card is very simple! Just bring in a photo ID with your name and current Chicago address. If you don’t have an ID you can bring in some kind of mail or voter registration card. Anything with your current name and Chicago address postmarked in the last 30 days. Again, eCards are also available and super easy to sign up for!
Q: Are there any virtual events that families might want to participate in?
A: We have a variety of Story Times, our Teen Audio Production classes, our sunday ScienceConnections programs, as well as resume help, and knitting circles for beginners during evenings! We also have a ton of other events city-wide on the citywide event calendar.
Q: What is a good way for families who are hesitant or unable to visit the library in person to access books and other resources?
A: The hold system allows library card holders to request books and pick them up at their local branch. You can place holds on books online and will receive an email when your book is ready for pick-up.
Q: What is your favorite thing about Chicago Public Libraries?
A: Chicago Public Library has so many opportunities to connect with our patrons. We love connecting with our patrons at home or in daycares and schools virtually. We have a recently remodeled Makerspace and teen and youth space and a state of the art Sound Studio. Families can pick up Grab and Go kits and science projects or craft activities for our online events and we also have Play Kits for younger children that can be borrowed and returned!