Surprising Things You Didn’t Know Your Library Offers! - S2 EP 51

Описание: 🎙️ In this episode, we dive into the heart of Fort Smith’s vibrant library scene with Jennifer Goodson, Director of the Fort Smith Public Library. From uncovering unexpected resources like tax help and digital streaming to highlighting their most popular events like Black Tie Bingo and the delicious Chocolate Festival, Jennifer shares how the library is redefining what it means to serve a modern community.

Discover how the Fort Smith Public Library is much more than books — it’s a hub for connection, creativity, learning, and support for all ages. Learn about the library’s free meeting spaces, partnerships with local organizations, unique programming for kids, teens, and adults, and how they stay connected to readers through bestsellers and community requests.

Plus, we talk local eats, coffee favorites, and the hidden gem café inside the main library. Whether you’re a lifelong reader or just library-curious, this episode is packed with reasons to stop by and stay awhile.

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Relevant Links:
• Fort Smith Public Library: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/for...
• Janet Huckabee Nature Center (filming location): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/jan...
• Creekmore Park (mentioned in holiday light display): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/cre...
• Fort Smith Coffee Co.: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/for...
• Sweet Bay Coffee: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/swe...
• Fort Kids Museum (community partner): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/for...
• UAFS (community partner): https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/uni...
• Green Papaya: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/gre...
• La Huerta: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/la-...
• Rolando’s Restaurante: https://www.discoverfortsmith.com/rol...

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Chapters:

00:00 Welcome & Library Misconceptions
00:39 Filming at Janet Huckabee Nature Center
01:29 Meet Jennifer Goodson – Fort Smith Native
02:52 Journey to Becoming a Librarian
05:00 From Medical Library to Public Service
07:29 Fun and Events at the Library
08:38 How to Stay Updated on Library Activities
09:13 Adult & Teen Programs
10:25 Free Gift Wrapping Station & Holiday Open House
12:00 Popular Book Trends & Bestseller Strategy
14:33 How the Library Manages Its Collection
16:14 Services Beyond Books – Tax Help, Partnerships & More
18:04 Genealogy Research & Public Misconceptions
19:18 Tech Services & Streaming Platforms (Hoopla, Kanopy)
20:44 Getting a Library Card – Residents & Non-Residents
22:28 Who Can Use the Library & What’s Free
23:12 Book Sales & Rare Vintage Collection
24:10 Funding Sources & Late Fees
26:21 Digitizing Historic Newspapers
27:01 Fundraising: Black Tie Bingo & Chocolate Festival
28:41 What’s Next: Digital Expansion & Possible Author Visits
30:06 Jennifer’s Favorite Fort Smith Eateries & Coffee Spots
32:16 Don’t Miss Dewey’s Café Inside the Library
32:27 Free Meeting Spaces at All Library Branches