The Clermont County Public Library is making it easier for everyone to access its collection

At the Clermont County Public Library, summer fun definitely includes reading. The 10-branch system provides access to its large print and digital collections and looks for ways to make reading fun for all ages throughout the year.

“We provide access to millions of materials available in our collection or through interlibrary loan. And we have a fantastic digital collection that doesn’t require a subscription fee. Libraries are a great community center where all are welcome, both in person and online,” says Chris Wick, executive director of the Clermont County Public Library. Any Ohio resident can get a Clermont County library card, and those out of state need only pay a $25 fee.

The library has developed several programs to make accessing the library easier—and more fun—for everyone. The 3 For Me card, for example, is targeted at youth ages 5 to 18. “3 for Me cardholders can check out age-appropriate books in the print collections. They also have access to our digital collection. Checkouts of print materials are limited to three items at a time,” says Wick. With this card, students also won’t be charged a fee if they turn a book in late.

Another special card is the Educator Card, which allows educators who teach in Clermont County to check out up 200 books for 21 days and 25 DVDs for seven days, among other perks. “It is designed to help enrich the education of students by providing access to the library’s vast collection of physical and digital materials. There is a grace period on fines, and we will waive the fees for up to two lost or damaged books per year,” adds Wick.

For those having trouble picking something to read, the Clermont County Public Library has created curated book bundles, which are small collections that center around various themes.

“We also have a Lucky Day collection of adult best sellers and mobile Wi-Fi units. These items can’t be put on hold, so it’s your Lucky Day if it’s available on the shelf when you visit the library,” she says.

June 1 through Aug. 31, the library will be offering its all-ages Summer Reading program. For every 200 minutes read, you’ll win a prize and be entered to win a grand prize, which would be a zoo family season pass or a Riverbend gift certificate.

And if you’re still uncomfortable spending time indoors with strangers, you can take advantage of the library’s curbside pickup. In the future, people will be able to pick up reserved books from lockers installed at all 10 locations, making it so that readers aren’t limited by the hours of the library itself.

The library has recorded many virtual programs on its YouTube channel—from preschool story time to escape rooms—but Wick says they are looking forward to bringing back both indoor and outdoor in-person events.

“Libraries are a free, community resource. While we are still in the midst of a pandemic, we have worked diligently to keep our libraries safe and open our regularly scheduled hours. We offer something for everyone,” she says.