The Natchitoches Parish Library (NPL) is proud to announce the addition of several exciting new offerings and building upgrades to its facility. These new services and amenities were made possible through the NPL’s ongoing efforts to enhance the community’s experience and support lifelong learning.
First, NPL is thrilled to showcase a beautiful mural on the first floor of the library featuring popular children’s book characters, which is currently being painted by local artist Annabel Jones. This vibrant mural will bring joy to both children and adults as they explore the library’s collections while also spotting the characters they know and love pictured playfully along the walls.
Additionally, the NPL is excited to announce “Star Books,” a coffee and tea self-service bar on the second floor. This cozy spot is an approved area for eating and drinking that allows for patrons to bring their own snacks without worry. This new area provides a comfortable setting to enjoy a warm beverage while reading, studying, or catching up with friends.
For those looking to preserve their treasured memories, the NPL now offers a home video conversion service. Patrons can have their tapes put onto DVD or USB, ensuring their preservation for years to come.
The library has also recently added two private study rooms on the second floor, which are available by reservation or walk-up. These rooms provide a quiet and comfortable space for individuals or groups of up to three people to study, work, or collaborate.
For those in need of A/V equipment for work (and fun) the NPL now offers an HD projector and large screen for checkout. This new addition is perfect for those needing to make presentations or who want to have a fun movie night at home.
Another new offering is Fiero Code, a self-paced learn-to-code software for ages 8-18. Hundreds of coding tutorials and dozens of real-world projects are available in Scratch, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python & SQL. This new online learning database provides a fun and engaging way for youth to learn valuable coding skills.
Finally, the NPL is excited to announce the availability of Hoopla BingePasses, which are available through the Hoopla Digital app and website. These passes offer access to entire content libraries, using only a single checkout. The Great Courses, Curiosity Stream, and the Hellosaurus app are just a few of the offerings. These passes offer unlimited streaming access to a vast array of content, allowing patrons to indulge in their favorite topics and interests.
A Natchitoches Parish Library card now also offers access to Northstar Digital, which provides online, self-guided modules for basic computer and online skills. Three areas are covered: Essential Computer Skills (Basic Computer Skills, Internet Basics, Using Email, Windows OS, Mac OS); Essential Software Skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Google Docs); & Using Technology in Daily Life (Social Media, Information Literacy, Career Search Skills, Accessing Telehealth Appointments, Supporting K-12 Distance Learning, Your Digital Footprint). Personalized assessment results provide a roadmap to relevant instruction, ensuring patrons have the skills they need to thrive in today’s digital world.
The Natchitoches Parish Library is committed to providing the best possible service and resources to its community. Your local library invites everyone to visit and explore their new offerings and upgraded facilities. For more information, visit the NPL’s website, natlib.org, stop by and say hello, or message them on their Facebook page.
