The Timberland Regional Library (TRL) system serves as a vital resource for residents across five counties in Washington State, including Grays Harbor, Lewis, Mason, Pacific, and Thurston. By providing access to a vast collection of physical books, digital media, and educational tools, the library supports lifelong learning and community engagement. This guide explains how to navigate the library’s online services, manage your account, and make the most of the digital offerings available to you from the comfort of your home.
Getting Started with Your Library Card
To access the full suite of online services provided by the library, you must have a valid library card. If you are a resident of the service area, obtaining a card is a straightforward process that grants you immediate access to both physical and digital collections.
Applying for a Card
You can visit any of the 29 library branches to apply for a card in person. You will need to provide photo identification and proof of your current residential address. For those who cannot visit a branch immediately, an online application is often available to set up a temporary digital account. This digital account allows you to browse the catalog and access most online databases and e-book services right away.
The MyTRL Program for Students
Many local school districts participate in the MyTRL program. This initiative allows students to use their student ID numbers as a library card. This ensures that students have access to research tools, e-books, and tutoring resources without needing to maintain a separate physical card. Parents can manage these accounts through the library’s portal to ensure their children are accessing age-appropriate materials.
Navigating the Online Catalog
The online catalog is the heart of the library’s digital presence. It allows you to search for millions of items across the entire regional network. Whether you are looking for the latest bestseller or a niche historical document, the catalog is designed for ease of use.
Searching for Materials
To find a specific item, use the search bar located at the top of the library’s homepage. You can search by title, author, subject, or keyword. To narrow down your results, use the filters on the side of the page. These filters allow you to limit results by format (such as audiobook, DVD, or hardcover), publication date, and specific branch location.
Managing Your Account
Once you log in to your account using your library card number and PIN, you can perform several administrative tasks. You can view your currently checked-out items, see their due dates, and renew materials if they are not on hold for another patron. The account dashboard also allows you to track any fines or fees, although the system has moved toward a fine-free model for most items to encourage greater community use.
Placing and Managing Holds
If an item you want is currently checked out or located at a different branch, you can place a hold on it. You will be notified via email or text message when the item arrives at your preferred location. You can manage your holds list through your online account, allowing you to pause holds if you are going on vacation or cancel them if you no longer need the material.
Exploring Digital E-Books and Audiobooks
One of the most popular features of the library system is the extensive digital collection. This allows patrons to borrow books and audiobooks directly to their smartphones, tablets, or e-readers without ever stepping foot in a building.
Using the Libby App
The primary platform for digital reading is Libby, by OverDrive. You can download the Libby app on most mobile devices and sign in with your library credentials. Once logged in, you can browse thousands of titles. Digital loans return themselves automatically on the due date, so you never have to worry about late fees for e-books.
Hoopla Digital Access
In addition to Libby, the library often provides access to Hoopla. This service is unique because it offers “instant” borrows, meaning there are no waitlists for titles. Hoopla includes not only e-books and audiobooks but also digital comics, music albums, and television shows. Each patron is typically allotted a specific number of borrows per month.
Streaming Media and Entertainment
The library provides more than just written words; it is a hub for high-quality streaming media. These services are free for cardholders and offer an alternative to paid subscription platforms.
Streaming Movies with Kanopy
Kanopy is a premier streaming service available through the library that focuses on independent films, documentaries, and world cinema. It also includes “Kanopy Kids,” which features educational and entertaining content for younger viewers. You can stream Kanopy on your computer or through apps on smart TVs and mobile devices.
Digital Music and Magazines
For music lovers, the library may offer services like Freegal, which allows for streaming and sometimes legal downloading of songs. Furthermore, the digital magazine collection provides full-color, interactive versions of popular publications. These can be read in a web browser or through the Libby app, ensuring you stay up to date with the latest news and hobbies.
Research and Learning Tools
The library serves as a powerful engine for research and personal development. By logging in with your library card, you gain access to premium databases that would otherwise require expensive subscriptions.
Professional and Personal Skill Building
Patrons can access platforms like LinkedIn Learning, which offers thousands of video courses taught by industry experts. Topics range from software development and graphic design to leadership and business management. This is an excellent resource for those looking to improve their resumes or learn a new hobby.
Genealogy and History
For those interested in family history, the library provides access to tools like Ancestry.com (Library Edition) and HeritageQuest. These databases allow you to search census records, military records, and vital statistics. While some of these tools must be used while physically inside a library branch, many are accessible from home with your library card.
Consumer and Health Information
Make informed decisions by using resources like Consumer Reports online. You can also access health databases that provide peer-reviewed medical information, which is a more reliable alternative to general internet searches for health-related queries.
Finding Branch Information and Local Services
While the digital resources are vast, the physical branches remain essential community hubs. The online portal provides all the information you need to plan a visit.
- Locations and Hours: View a full list of branches across the five counties, including their current operating hours and holiday closures.
- Meeting Rooms: Many branches offer meeting rooms that can be reserved by community groups or individuals for study and collaboration.
- Printing and Wi-Fi: Learn about the availability of public computers, high-speed Wi-Fi, and mobile printing services at your local branch.
- Library of Things: Some locations offer non-traditional items for checkout, such as Wi-Fi hotspots, tools, or science kits.
Conclusion
The Timberland Regional Library system offers an incredible array of resources that go far beyond the bookshelves. By utilizing the online catalog, digital media apps, and research databases, you can turn your library card into a powerful tool for entertainment and education. Whether you are a student, a professional, or a casual reader, these services are designed to be accessible and easy to use. To get started, simply log in to your account and begin exploring the wealth of information available at your fingertips. For more help with digital services, consider exploring other articles on managing online accounts and utilizing public resources effectively.