The Cook Memorial Public Library District has released an abbreviated version of its Spring 2026 “Ins & Outs” newsletter, highlighting upcoming programs, services, and community events.
This spring, the library will launch an updated online catalog. The new design aims to improve search capabilities and enhance digital accessibility. Features include enhanced search functions, grouping of titles by format, management of multiple library cards in one place, and the ability to create lists for future reading or viewing. Existing features such as reading history tracking and mobile-friendly access remain available. Demonstrations of the new catalog will be offered during National Library Week from April 19 to April 25.
National Library Week activities will feature Mychal Threets—librarian, literacy advocate, and host of Reading Rainbow—as honorary chair. Visitors can participate in catalog demos, trivia games, app tutorials, and other activities throughout the week.
The Friends of the Library Spring Book Sale is scheduled for April 11 and 12. Members have early access on Saturday morning; membership can be purchased at the door. On Sunday afternoon, a $5 Bag Sale allows attendees to fill a provided bag with books or media for a flat fee. Educators teaching within the district may select books free with valid school ID. Donations for the sale are accepted at both library locations through April 5 or until capacity is reached.
In recognition of America’s 250th anniversary since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the library will host programs and displays throughout summer under “America 250: We the People.” The celebration includes a Summer Reading Kickoff Party on May 29 at Aspen Drive Library with games, crafts, early registration for summer reading clubs, and prize drawings.
Youth programming continues with initiatives like Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library—which provides free books to children under five—and “1000 Books Before Kindergarten,” encouraging families to read together from birth onward. The annual Creative Writing Contest invites students in grades four through eight to submit stories or poems by April 3 for possible publication in the library’s literary magazine.
For high school students (grades nine through twelve), a photography contest runs throughout May with categories including People, Places, and Things; winners receive gift cards to Michaels craft store. The Adult and High School Winter Reading Club concludes March 31; participants who complete three qualifying books earn an enamel pin (while supplies last) and entry into a prize drawing.
Adults are invited to Digital Preservation Week from April 26 to May 2 to digitize up to five personal photos per appointment with staff assistance. Other offerings include studio workshops on recording sessions or digitizing media formats such as VHS tapes or vinyl records.
Beginning March 1 through March 31 while supplies last, patrons can visit either Cook Park or Aspen Drive Library for free seed packets as part of this year’s Seed Library initiative—no obligation is required beyond picking up seeds.
The newsletter also announces that a new Bookmobile will join service this summer. The current vehicle has served for over two decades but now requires frequent maintenance leading to service interruptions. The replacement will run internal electronics on rechargeable batteries charged either at the library or via rooftop solar panels—eliminating diesel generator use—and offer LED lighting inside and out for efficiency. At twenty-six feet long with modular interior features such as adjustable shelving and seating arrangements plus improved accessibility including wide aisles and lifts for patrons with mobility issues—the new Bookmobile aims to expand outreach across neighborhoods more effectively than before.
Updates about these initiatives are available on the Cook Memorial Public Library District website.
