What’s the perfect downtown location to read a newspaper, do a job search, or borrow the latest book or movie? Where do you turn if you want to download free ebooks, magazines and music on the spot, from wherever you are?
The correct answer to both questions — Schlow Centre Region Library, at 211 S. Allen St. Schlow Library is a community hub as well as a multifaceted resource providing free computers and wi-fi along with large collections of books, DVDs, magazines, games and other materials, all in the welcoming surroundings of “downtown’s living room.”
Schlow is a portal to the mobile world as well, offering access to a wealth of online resources from anywhere, 24 hours a day, at www.schlowlibrary.org . You can also learn more from our knowledgeable staff or in our popular “Gadget for Grown-ups” classes.
Looking for apps for your iPad, Droid or Nook? Need a hotel? The nearest barbecue restaurant? Spanish for “I miss you”? Schlow has apps for these as well as for free music via Freegal, free audio or ebooks via Overdrive or free magazines via Zinio.
Love magazines but not the cost? Download full digital copies of your favorite magazines — pictures, cartoons, the works — via Zinio. From Consumer Reports to Parenting, there are great titles available, with more on the way. Schlow is proud to be one of the first libraries in the country to offer this service, including the not-to-be-missed interactive National Geographic.
Fascinated by current events? Both Newsbank and Magazines Online provide access to recent and back issues.
Heading overseas? Transparent Language Online includes lessons for 80 languages, complete with dozens of fun learning activities.
Hunting for a job or in need of homework help? Learning Express provides civil service test practice, as well as tutorials on topics such as reading to high school science.
Free music sound appealing? One of Schlow’s most popular resources, Freegal offers three free songs a week from a catalog of millions of songs in different genres.
Grappling with an elusive question? Ask Here PA is a virtual chat service that connects you 24-7 to a professional librarian who can help you find appropriate, reliable sources.
Do your kids love stories, books, games and puzzles? Download these and more, including language lessons, via Tumblebooks. Your Schlow library card gives you access to these resources and more.
To explore Schlow’s eWorld and real world, stop by the Library, www.schlowlibrary.org or call 237-6236. Our friendly staff will be happy to help you get started.
Catherine Alloway is the director of the Schlow Centre Region Library.
