As a Panama City local, you have access to an impressive array of research, educational, and entertainment resources. Even better, most are available for free or at a low cost through the Northwest Regional Library System. Curious to learn what you can do at the library besides borrow books? Find out how to use every available resource at the Panama City Beach Public Library.
E-Books, Audiobooks, And Online Databases
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Once you sign up for a library card from the Panama City Beach Public Library, you can access all of the online borrowing options that the Northwest Regional Library System offers. That means you can log in to a wide range of e-book and audiobook libraries as well as online databases for class or personal research. Online resources include:
- OverDrive, Libby, RB Digital, and EBSCOHost: Digital books and audiobooks.
- Gale Virtual Reference Library: Digital encyclopedias and other reference resources.
- Florida Electronic Library: Digital magazine and journal articles.
- Project Gutenberg: Free e-books without a library card.
Internet Access
Maybe your home internet access is out or you need a quiet place to study. Perhaps you need to research something pressing while you’re out and about. Either way, the Panama City Beach Public Library offers free internet access to members of the community. Although the length of your surfing session might be limited if others are waiting, you can save your work on your personal USB drive so you can continue it later.
Need to print something you found online? The Panama City Beach Public Library offers black-and-white printing for $0.10 per page and color printing for $0.20 per page.
3D Printing
If you’re looking to create something a little more advanced, try out the library’s 3D printing services. The 3D printer uses polylactic acid (PLA) filament in a limited range of colors, so call ahead to make sure the color you need is available.
The Panama City Beach Public Library is only one of three locations in the network with 3D capabilities, so check the library’s open lab hours or make an appointment at a convenient time for you.
Electronics And DVDs
Whether you’re planning a movie night or you want to pick up something educational for the kids, the Panama City Beach Public Library has an impressive selection of DVDs for borrowing. You can pick up PBS documentaries and DVDs focused on learning, or you can check out the newest action movies and rom-coms.
The Panama City Beach Public Library also has a selection of Playaway Launchpads for kids. These tablets have 7-inch touch screens with protective cases and come with educational videos ideal for kids 3 years old and up.
Musical Instruments
When you want to reduce your screen time, the library has you covered. In addition to books and electronics, the Panama City Beach Public Library also has a selection of musical instruments available for checkout. You can borrow ukuleles and dulcimers for up to three weeks, giving you plenty of time to master the basics and learn a few songs. When you borrow an instrument, it includes a tuner to ensure your notes are always in tune.
Once you learn a few songs, you can join the library network’s music clubs. The Ukulele Social Club typically meets on the first Saturday of the month, and the Mountain Dulcimer Class meets on the third Friday of the month.
Books For Sale
If you’d prefer to keep your books forever rather than for just a few weeks, check out the library’s bookstore. The Panama City Beach Public Library has a selection of used books, magazines, DVDs, and other items for anywhere from a few cents to about $1.
All-Ages Programs
Throughout the year, the Panama City Beach Public Library hosts educational events for kids and adults. Check the library’s website to find dates and times for children’s storytimes, kid-friendly STE(A)M programs, and much more. You can even pick up take-home craft kits and log in for crafting hours each week. Adults will also appreciate the library’s online art history lectures, poetry hours, and cooking classes.
Tutoring And Classes
If you’re looking for more long-term learning opportunities, the Panama City Beach Public Library can help. The library offers a free tutoring program for patrons 18 years and older. If you want to improve your English speaking or writing skills, prepare for the GED exam, or pass the U.S. Citizenship test, contact the library to learn more about literacy programs.
If you’d rather learn another language, check out the library’s Transparent Language service. With this online resource, you can learn over 100 languages.
The Panama City Beach Public Library also offers more than 500 online courses through the Universal Class platform. From accounting to crafts, you can use this service to brush up on a variety of subjects.
Meeting Rooms
If you need a quiet area to meet with your group, the Panama City Beach Public Library has meeting rooms available for reservation, and you can typically use them to host events lasting up to four hours. Nonprofit organizations can use the rooms at no cost, while for-profit organizations pay a few of $20 for up to four hours.
Speakers’ Bureau
When you want to host an event outside of the library but you need a compelling speaker, the Panama City Beach Public Library has you covered. Contact the library to book an experienced speaker who can entertain and educate your audience on topics like:
- Colonial Days and Dames.
- Graphic Novels 101.
- Genealogy Basics.
- The Value of Public Libraries in the Age of Amazon and Google.
Mobile Library
If you don’t have time to run to the library, the Mobile Library can help. During each stop in the Panama City area, the Mobile Library lets you:
- Borrow books and DVDs.
- Return any items you’ve borrowed.
- Use the free Wi-Fi.
- Complete 3D printing projects.
- Attend craft activities and other educational programs.
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