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 MTL NEWSLETTERNOVEMBER 2025 |
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There is so much to be proud of at the library! So many amazing things are happening here to benefit our community. From expanding access to food and books to reaching new readers, there is so much good news to share. - Little Free Pantry and Libraries
Our new Little Free Food Pantry is officially open! It’s stocked with free, non-perishable food items for anyone in need. The pantry joins two Free Little Libraries, where visitors can pick up or leave a book anytime. A heartfelt thank-you goes out to local Scouts Maxine, Clara and Beatrice, who brought these projects to life. - A Library Card for Every Student
For the first time ever, we’ve partnered with the Waterloo Community Unit School District #5 to ensure that every student in the district receives a public library card at no cost to them, regardless of where they live. This partnership opens the doors of the library to more than 4,000 children, many of whom may never have had the chance to take home a library book or join a library program. We’re thrilled to collaborate with the Waterloo CUSD#5 on this meaningful initiative. - The Library is “On the Go!”
Our newest project, the Library On the Go outreach van, is ready to roll! This special service will bring the library back into the lives of those who can no longer visit us due to illness or mobility challenges. Thanks to the generosity of our community, the entire project was funded through grants and donations. We are deeply grateful and extend our sincere appreciation to:
Mr. and Mrs. William Gardner, long-time library trustee (Vicki) and library supporters
Mr. and Mrs. Kermit Constantine (Laura) and Mr. and Mrs. John Mudrick (Lissa), honoring Mr. and Mrs. Roy J. May and Mr. Barry May
The family of Mrs. Twila Hoffmann, devoted patron and library trustee
The Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities grant program from the American Library Association (ALA), which awarded the library a $10,000 grant toward the vehicle purchase.
Jamie Director |
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New “Library On the Go” Van Hits the Road!
Morrison-Talbott Library is hitting the road with our new Library On the Go van—launching November 1st! This exciting service brings the joy of reading and connection directly to our community through homebound deliveries and visits to nursing homes and assisted living facilities in the Waterloo area. Watch for our new van around town as we deliver stories, smiles, and library services wherever they’re needed most! 
Art Exhibit Hallway
The Morrison-Talbott Library is proud to host a new art exhibit
featuring the works of Vincent Koepp, on display from October 27
through November 7 in the Art Exhibit Hallway on the lower level. Join us for an Open House on October 28 and 29 from 6–8 p.m., where you can meet the artist and learn more about his creative process. Following Koepp’s exhibit, we’ll showcase Waterloo High School Art 2 "Fresh Prints” relief printmaking art display from November 7 through January 5. Be sure to stop by and enjoy the incredible local talent on display!
Return of Dead People of Illinois Presentation
Join us at Morrison-Talbott Library on Friday, November 21 from
6:30–8:00 p.m. for “The Return of Dead People of Illinois” with
storyteller John Lynn. Take a fascinating and entertaining journey
through Illinois cemeteries as John shares stories of interesting
headstones, intriguing lives and deaths, and the lots and plots of
funny names discovered across the state. It’s a lively look at the past you won’t want to miss!
Sherri Adult Services Coordinator |
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Tell me everything : a novel
by Elizabeth Strout
While defending a lonely, isolated man accused of killing his mother, town lawyer Bob Burgess falls into a deep and abiding friendship with acclaimed writer, Lucy Barton, and together they meet the iconic Olive Kitteridge and spend afternoons in Olive's apartment, telling each other stories, which imbues their lives with meaning.
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Want more book suggestions? |
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Family Events at the Library! The Morrison-Talbott Library has two free, exciting programs planned for families—mark your calendars now and join the fun! - Family Reading Night Thursday, November 20 · 5:00–7:00 p.m.
Drop in anytime during this open-house event for a night filled with games, crafts, a photo booth, scavenger hunt, caricature drawings, face painting, attendance prizes, and more! Please register by November 17 so we can prepare enough supplies—email mtl@waterloolibrary.org, call 618-939-6232, or stop by the library. - Christmas Open House
Thursday, December 11 · 4:30–7:30 p.m.
Celebrate the season with a festive evening at the library! Visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus, make an ornament, play holiday games, enjoy a balloon artist, choose a book to take home, and more.
We hope to see you at the library for one of these events or another program. Be sure to check out the youth page on our website, for a full lists of events we offer!
Ms. Stephanie
Youth Services Coordinator
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I am not finished with my book and need more time… Why can’t I renew it?
You may not be able to renew your book for a few reasons:
· It belongs to another library. Some libraries don’t allow renewals on their items.
· Someone else has requested it. If another patron has placed a hold, renewals aren’t possible
· You’ve reached the renewal limit. Most MTL items can be renewed twice, giving you up to six weeks of checkout time. Items from other libraries may have different renewal limits or checkout periods. You can check your account — including due dates and renewal availability — through the Share Mobile Library app or online at www.waterloolibrary.org. Good news: MTL does not charge overdue fines. As long as you return your item within 30 days of the due date and it’s in good condition, there will be no charges to your account. Do you have a question about how things work at the library? Submit your questions to mtl@waterloolibrary.org for an answer! Kara Cataloger |
 Genealogy |
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 Illinois Libraries Present |
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