Need to get your reading fix but don’t want to buy more books? While Robbins, Fox, and other libraries may be closed to walk ins, they have tons of online resources for you, and have new pickup borrowing programs.
- Robbins library offers contactless pickup for book reservations online.
- Return library books at the outside drop boxes at either Robbins or Fox. Note: it will take 3+ days for the books to get scanned back into the system!
- Want to read, but not sure what? Fill out the Library Grab Bag request form, and librarians will find you books!
Library Programs Online
Need real books now? See local bookstores offering delivery or pickup!.
Just want to know everything thats available? Check out Minuteman Library Network Online Resources - they list dozens of websites, research sites, readers, and more you can login to with your library card number.
Don’t have a library card, or lost yours? Register for a new Minuteman library number online or get a BPL eCard online - both are free for Mass residents.
Wondering how it all works? Arlingtonian Steve Rothman has a clear guide about what Robbins online tools are what and how to use them!
Library Programs Glossary And Resource Lists
- MLN or MINLIB - Minuteman Library Network - the regional network of libraries, allowing you to use your library card across Massachusetts (well, now across all their online services)
- Overdrive lets you “check out” books from your library network on your ereader, smartphone, or laptop.
- Libby is a newer app version of Overdrive that many people like, especially on iPhone/Android devices. David Coletta of the Arlington List has Libby tips.
- Hoopla works as an app or in your browser, and lets you stream movies and ebooks with your library card.
- Kanopy is a free streaming service for movies - documentaries, award winners, and foriegn or cult films.
- NEW Acorn TV allows you to stream selected Britsh shows and movies with your card.
- Newspapers like the NYTimes and Boston Globe can be read when you login with your library card.
- Mango is an immersive language learning experience - take the time stuck at home to speak a new language.
All Nearby Libraries And Programs
Are you following your favorite library on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram? Many libraries are running regular online storytimes and have other events, classes, and more in their Facebook or YouTube pages!
- Arlington’s Robbins Library - tons of updates and activities, storytimes.
- Cary Memorial Library - lots of updates and activities! - Regularly updated.
- Belmont Public Library - regularly updated.
- Cambridge Public Library - regularly updated; Thursday 11AM storytime.
- Medford Public Library - regularly updated; storytimes Wed & Thu. - Reading Anne of Green Gables daily!
- Somerville Public Library - updated regularly, storytimes.
- Winchester Public Library - regular updates and events.
- Watertown Free Public Library - regular updates and online learning.
- Waltham Public Library
Got More Ideas?
Email us your suggestions - we update this site frequently!
It’s OK to read books more than once