Though the Library's physical building is closed and this is an uncertain time for all of us, we are still here to support our community in any way we can. Below is a list of resources that have expanded access for a limited time, along with fun things you can do from home.
We will be continually updating this list with more resources as they become available. Have a suggested addition? Email us at info@mgpl.org.
Internet access
First and foremost is making sure you have access to internet resources. For anyone who doesn’t have internet at home or is worried about overusing their data, the Library's free Wi-Fi remains on and accessible from outside the building.
You can also check with your internet service provider about some flexible options. Comcast specifically is offering:
- Free access to Xfinity Wi-Fi hotspots, whether or not you’re a customer
- Unlimited data for no additional charge to subscribers
- Free access to their Internet Essentials plan (for low income families) to new customers
- Increased speeds for existing subscribers
- Learn more: Comcast Announces Comprehensive COVID-19 Response to Help Keep Americans Connected to the Internet
Expanded access to library e-content
Once you have your internet taken care of, enjoy expanded access to all the digital books, movies, music, TV shows, and music the Library has to offer from the comfort of your own home. See our Download & Stream page for more:
Monthly checkout limit is increased to 20 per library card.
The Library is buying more copies of the newest and most popular books, which means less wait times for you.
Monthly checkout limit is increased to 20 per library card and a list of credit-free titles are available for viewing.
Free E-Books
Free public domain ebooks are always available at Project Gutenberg, Internet Archive, and Open Library.
Cultural experiences
Were you planning a vacation or an event that has since been canceled? You can still enjoy your part of your trip from your living room with these newly free options.
Museum virtual tours - View exhibits at the British Museum, The Louvre, and the Museum of Modern Art.
Metropolitan Opera - Watch a new opera performance by the Metropolitan Opera every night at 6:30 pm, beginning Monday, March 16. Each show will remain available for 20 hours.
Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra - Get free access to the orchestra's digital concert hall, which includes over 600 concerts. Accessible until March 31.
Monterey Bay Aquarium Live Streams - Enjoy live video streams of the aquarium's resident sea otters, penguins, sharks, and other animals.
The Cincinnati Zoo: Livestream on Facebook
Cleveland Metro Parks live classrooms - Tune in each weekday to Cleveland Metroparks free Virtual Classroom on Facebook Live and learn about nature, discover native wildlife and see your favorite animals at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo.
Massimo Bottura - The celebrity chef is offering cooking classes on his Instagram called Kitchen Quarantine.
Take a digital hike with Google Earth
The Shedd Aquarium took their penguins on a field trip
12 historic sites you can virtually tour from your couch
News for You Online, a weekly publication for adult English learners, is offering free access for a limited time. Use the courtesy password 22667F through April 30, 2020.
A list of live virtual concerts to watch during the coronavirus shutdown.
Citizens Utility Board is offering virtual utility bill clinics.
Rebecca Hayes is an Adult Services Librarian at Morton Grove Public Library.