Check Out the Library's Revamped Website

The Marin County Free Library, which has two locations in Novato ( and ), has redesigned its website, www.marinlibrary.org, with a fresh look. It has lots of integrated social media, including connections to the library’s blogs, Flickr feeds, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. All the library’s programs and materials are highlighted on the front page of the new site.

“We want to give people choices," said Scott Bauer, the library’s deputy director. "The most popular service our website provides is access to books, DVDs and other materials through the library catalog. But there are dozens of other services the library offers, such as story times for children, that our patrons love. The new site lets us highlight these services, bringing them to new people.”

Amanda Jacobs Foust, the county's electronic services librarian, spearheaded the redesign effort.

“The new site also acknowledges that many people, while users and supporters of the library, don’t always have the time to come visit our branches in person," she said. "For our virtual visitors, we have materials like our downloadable Overdrive ebooks, our Mango language learning service, and Brainfuse online homework help to name just a few of the things you can access from home, work or school."

The library also has increased its connections to patrons through social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter.

The library staff is eager to hear reactions from people using the new site and encourages them to share their experience by e-mailing to library@co.marin.ca.us.