Helpful Online Resources
Free with your card, and many don’t even require one. Learn something new, fix something old, or trace your family back a hundred years.
From the library itself
Resources we run in-house
Some of the most useful resources for patrons aren’t databases at all — they’re services right here in the library.
- 3D PrintingThe library’s Original Prusa MINI+ prints your designs in PLA, PETG, or TPU. Submit an .stl or .obj file — staff handle the rest. $1/hr.Visit our 3D Printing page →
- Adult EducationFree classes for adults: GED prep, career and technical certifications, computer skills, and Maker Lab. Right next door at the Lifelong Learning Center.Visit our Adult Education page →
Genealogy & Career
Family history & career resources
Trace your roots, polish your resume, or get back into the workforce.
- Heritage Quest OnlineLibrary cardOnline family-history search database — U.S. census records, Revolutionary War records, military records, Freedman’s Bank records, and more. Free with your card. (opens in new tab)
- Cypress Resume BuilderLibrary cardBuild or improve a resume with guided templates and expert tips. Use it to polish what you have, or start one from scratch. (opens in new tab)
- Employment Services GuideA guide to employment services for people experiencing homelessness — assembled by Resume Builder. (opens in new tab)
Encyclopedias
Encyclopedias & reference material
Turns out Wikipedia is far from the only online encyclopedia. These are high-quality, peer-reviewed sources for just about everything.
- A to Z MapsAn enormous collection of royalty-free maps — topographical, political, election, historical, and more. (opens in new tab)
- A to Z The WorldLearn about almost any country in the world — language, culture, business practices, history, and more. (opens in new tab)
- A to Z USAInformation and facts about the United States, broken down by each individual state. (opens in new tab)
- A to Z Food USARegional and state-specific food information, including recipes and history. (opens in new tab)
- A to Z DatabasesA database of databases. Look up people, businesses, jobs, and a whole lot more. (opens in new tab)
- Salem PressHigh-quality, peer-reviewed encyclopedia content across literature, history, science, and the arts. (opens in new tab)
- Global Road WarriorBuilt by over 1,200 writers, photographers, and travelers — a database about everywhere in the world and everything you need to know about it. (opens in new tab)
How-To & DIY
Repair, maker, and computer skills
Whether you’re fixing a car, a small engine, a boat, or your house — or learning a new computer skill — these resources walk you through it.
- Small Engine Repair (EBSCO)Step-by-step repair information for lawn mowers, chainsaws, generators, outboards, and other small engines. (opens in new tab)
- Auto Repair (EBSCO)Detailed, vehicle-specific repair manuals and diagnostic procedures from EBSCO Auto Repair Source. (opens in new tab)
- 3D Printing & Hobby TutorialsA curated catalog of 3D-printing guides and maker tutorials at howchoo. (opens in new tab)
- This Old HouseTrusted home-repair and renovation guides, project plans, and how-to videos for nearly any DIY job around the house. (opens in new tab)
- Computer Skills (GCF Global)Free tutorials covering Microsoft Office, Google tools, internet basics, online safety, and more. (opens in new tab)
Online Libraries
Free ebooks & audiobooks
We’d love to see you in person — but if you can’t make it, these collections are great places to read or listen for free.
- Open LibraryRead free library books online and keep track of your favorites. Part of the Internet Archive. (opens in new tab)
- LibriVoxDownload and listen to thousands of free audiobooks — or lend your voice to the cause and narrate one of your own. (opens in new tab)
- World Book OnlineAn engaging, verified, and trustworthy digital resource for grades pre-K through high school. (opens in new tab)
- Tumble BooksAnimated, talking picture books — kids can read along online for free. (opens in new tab)
Educational
Education & career development
Free guides to higher education and adult learning paths in Indiana.
- Indiana Library Science DegreesA directory of accredited library-science programs in Indiana — useful if you’re considering a career in libraries. (opens in new tab)
- Indiana Teaching DegreesA directory of teaching certification and degree programs offered across Indiana. (opens in new tab)
- Get your GED at OCPLFree GED preparation, career certifications, and computer-skills classes — taught at the Lifelong Learning Center just south of the library.