The Upper Arlington Public Library (UAPL) serves as a vital resource for residents of Upper Arlington, Ohio, and the surrounding areas. Known for its high-quality collections and community-focused services, the library system consists of three distinct branches. Whether you are looking for the latest bestseller, a quiet place to work, or digital resources for research, the library provides tools to support lifelong learning.
Understanding how to navigate the library’s offerings can help you make the most of your membership. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the locations, services, and digital tools available through the Upper Arlington Public Library system.
Upper Arlington Library Locations
The system operates three branches, each offering a unique atmosphere and specialized resources. Depending on your needs, one branch may be more suitable than the others for your specific visit.
Tremont Road (Main Library)
The Tremont Road branch is the largest facility in the system. It houses the most extensive collection of books, media, and reference materials. It also features the Media Services department and large community meeting rooms.
Lane Road Library
Located on the west side of the city, the Lane Road branch offers a cozy environment with a strong focus on neighborhood service. It features a robust children’s area and a diverse selection of popular fiction and non-fiction titles.
Miller Park Library
The Miller Park branch is located within a historic building near Miller Park. It is known for its charming architecture and intimate setting. This branch is particularly popular with families and local students looking for a quiet study space.
How to Get a Library Card
Obtaining a library card is the first step to accessing the full suite of services provided by the UAPL. The process is straightforward and open to a wide range of users.
- Eligibility: Any resident of the State of Ohio is eligible for a free library card.
- Application: You can apply in person at any branch by providing a photo ID and proof of your current address.
- Digital Cards: For those who only wish to access online resources, the library often provides an e-card option that can be requested through their official website.
- Minors: Children under the age of 18 can receive a card with the consent and signature of a parent or legal guardian.
Your library card allows you to borrow physical items, place holds on books from other libraries in the consortium, and log in to premium digital databases from home.
Borrowing Materials and the Catalog
The Upper Arlington Public Library maintains a diverse collection of physical items. Beyond traditional books, the library offers a variety of media and unconventional items for checkout.
The library is part of the Central Library Consortium (CLC). This partnership allows UAPL cardholders to request books and materials from several other library systems in Central Ohio, greatly expanding the number of available titles.
Types of Materials Available
- Print Books: Including new releases, classics, large print editions, and graphic novels.
- Audiovisual Media: DVDs, Blu-rays, music CDs, and audiobooks on CD.
- Periodicals: Current newspapers and a wide variety of popular magazines.
- Library of Things: A unique collection that includes items like Wi-Fi hotspots, power tools, and science kits.
Most items can be renewed online or via the library’s mobile app if there are no pending holds from other patrons. You can also sign up for email or text notifications to remind you of upcoming due dates.
Digital Resources and E-Books
In addition to physical branches, the library offers a robust digital collection. These resources are available 24/7 and can be accessed from any device with an internet connection.
The Ohio Digital Library (Libby): This is the primary platform for borrowing e-books and digital audiobooks. Users can download the Libby app and sign in with their UAPL card to browse thousands of titles.
Kanopy and Hoopla: These streaming services allow patrons to watch movies, documentaries, and educational series for free. Hoopla also includes digital comics and music albums.
Research Databases: The library pays for subscriptions to premium databases. These include genealogy tools like Ancestry.com (Library Edition), language learning software like Mango Languages, and professional development platforms like LinkedIn Learning.
Technology and Media Services
The Upper Arlington Public Library provides essential technology services for the public. This makes the library a valuable workspace for freelancers, students, and those without reliable internet at home.
High-speed Wi-Fi is available for free at all three branches. There are also public computer terminals equipped with internet access and basic office software. Printing, scanning, and faxing services are available for a small fee per page.
The Media Lab
A standout feature of the Tremont Road branch is the Media Lab. This space is designed for digital creation and preservation. Patrons can use specialized equipment to convert old VHS tapes to digital formats, scan slides and negatives, or work on graphic design projects.
Staff members are often available to provide basic guidance on using this equipment. It is recommended to book a session in advance, as the Media Lab is a popular resource for local residents.
Programs and Community Events
The library serves as a community hub by hosting hundreds of programs each year. These events are designed for all age groups and are generally free of charge.
- Children’s Programs: Including weekly storytimes, summer reading challenges, and STEM workshops.
- Teen Activities: Such as gaming clubs, craft sessions, and college preparation workshops.
- Adult Education: Including book clubs, historical lectures, financial planning seminars, and technology classes.
The library publishes a seasonal program guide that lists all upcoming events. You can also view the event calendar on the library’s website to register for specific sessions that require a reservation.
Meeting Rooms and Study Spaces
If you need a place for a group meeting or a quiet area for individual study, the library provides several options. These spaces are highly sought after and help support local organizations and students.
Small study rooms are available on a first-come, first-served basis or can be reserved for short periods. Larger meeting rooms are available for non-profit organizations and community groups. These larger rooms often include audiovisual equipment for presentations.
Always check the library’s room use policy before booking. There may be specific rules regarding the frequency of use and the types of activities permitted within the facility.
Conclusion
The Upper Arlington Public Library is much more than a collection of books. It is a comprehensive resource center that provides the community with access to technology, education, and entertainment. By utilizing your library card, you can save money on media, learn new skills through digital databases, and connect with your neighbors at local events.
To get started, visit any of the three branches or browse the online catalog to see what is currently available. If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring our other articles on community resources, educational tools, and local services to continue expanding your knowledge.