Whether you're gathering research or just looking for a good book to read, the Litchfield Public Library can help meet your needs. Materials such as books, periodicals and videos are available and can be checked out using a library card.

In 2002, the new library was built at a cost of $1.26 million. The library's expansion has attracted people of all ages. Programs for children, teenagers and adults are available throughout the school year and during the summer.

The building features a meeting room, two study rooms, a copy machine and a fax machine available for public use. The library has 16 computers with Internet access. It also provides a wireless Internet connection through Wi-Fi.

Litchfield is one of 31 public libraries in the Pioneerland Library System. Patrons can check out materials from any of the libraries in the Pioneerland System using a library card. The library catalog can be accessed online from a computer at the library, home or work. While online, patrons have the ability to check their library accounts, renew checked-out items, or request materials from other libraries. Patrons can view coming events and learn about the library on the Web site.

Litchfield has one of the largest libraries in the Pioneerland System. When it comes to materials and resources, Litchfield ranks fourth behind area libraries. Since the opening of the new building, the library has continued to grow. The Litchfield Library serves approximately 12,000 residents from Litchfield and surrounding areas. Litchfield has a circulation of more than 100,000 checked out items, including time spent on computers.

Opportunities and resources
Book Clubs
There are two book clubs available to adults. The Mystery Club meets the third Wednesday of the month. The Friends Club meets the fourth Tuesday of the month. There also is a Winter Reading and Review Program from January to March.

Computer Classes
Basic computer classes are offered during the school year to teach skills needed for using the internet, library computer programs, computer maintenance and other basic programs. One-on-one computer tutoring is also available.

Children's Department
The library has a juvenile and children's department for children in preschool through middle school. The library's story hour runs continuously throughout the school year on Thursdays and Fridays. A summer reading program is available for children in primary school.

Volunteers
The library welcomes volunteers. Some programs open to volunteers are Adult Reading Tutoring and Volunteer Reader. Volunteers can help an adult improve their reading skills or have the option of reading to a group. Volunteers also are needed to help at the library.

At-Home-Delivery
The library delivers materials to senior citizens within city limits.

Book Sales
A book sale takes place on the third Saturday of the month and a large annual book sale takes place in the summer. Donated materials are always accepted.

If you go

Location: 216 Marshall Ave. N.

Hours: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Web site: www.litch.com/library

Telephone: (320) 693-2483