Not Just for Kids Unique library classes & programs for grown-ups BY MARISA MOHI . PHOTOS PROVIDED. W hether through story times or fun STEM-based take-home kits, many parents are familiar with the free programs for kids offered by Metropolitan Library System. But MLS also has free resources and library classes for adults to help them build strong financial habits, get in shape, find their dream job and learn a new skill. These unique library programs for adults are available system-wide, and many can be accessed from the comfort of home. Library classes for adults MLS caters to all schedules and learning styles. Adults can access books and databases for self-guided learning, perfect for those with busy schedules. For those seeking in-person library classes for adults, MLS holds events at each branch. Financial resources If you’re looking for resources to learn how to be better with money, the library makes it easy to find them. The library has all the business and finance books you’ve been meaning to read to build good money habits. “Our catalog automatically pulls in the NYT Bestsellers lists, and the list of bestselling business books is a great place to find new finance books,” said Janeal Walker, director of collection services and development. Another way to find resources to help build good financial habits is through MLS’s Tailored Titles service. Through the system, patrons can share topics they’d like more information on and details about what they like to read, and a reading expert will create a personalized list. Tailored Titles can be used for any type of self-help, educational or fun reading materials. “This is a great service if you need help planning your investment strategy for the upcoming year, filing 2024 taxes as a small business or building a family budget to save for buying a house in 2025, or any other financial milestone you may need to research,” said Walker.
To get your tailored list, simply fill out the reader survey at metrolibrary.org/discover/using-the-library/reader-services/tailored- titles. For those looking for help with their investment strategy, access the Morning Star Investment Research Center easily from home or your local library. This database helps you make informed investment decisions and build good money habits by providing information on mutual funds, stocks, exchange-traded funds and closed-end funds. As tax season approaches, MLS helps patrons print tax forms or find the federal or state office needed to correctly file taxes. For more information, visit tax help resources at metrolibrary.org/explore/topic/ tax-help. Health resources Improving health and fitness is a popular New Year’s resolution, but with so many diet plans out there (and many of them costing significantly), it’s hard to know where to start. MLS offers resources to cut through noisy sales pitches so you can hit the ground running. The A to Z Food America database (accessible via the library’s website) provides articles about the culture and history surrounding American food, as well as recipes to help you find new meals to try on your health journey. In February, the Edmond Library will host a Diabetic Nutrition and Wellness Workshop to help patrons with type 2 diabetes or pre- diabetes manage their condition through food and exercise. Plus, MLS offers fitness classes. Check out Beginner’s Tai Chi at the Southern Oaks branch or Yoga and Meditation in Edmond. Career resources If you’re seeking a new career in the new year, the Blue Career database helps patrons navigate a list of skilled trades and connects them with employers and training materials.
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