The Youth Services staff at the Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library loves it when classes visit the library! All three MPHPL locations offer tours and a variety of programs for students of all age levels. MPHPL Youth Services Coordinator Karen Palmer said, "We provide students with an introduction to the library, care of books activities and a tour of our Youth Services area. We can provide a library orientation for older students, including instruction on database and digital resources and assistance on research projects. All students receive information to take home on how to obtain a library card."
Contact MPHPL at (574) 259-5277 ext. 1401 to schedule a class visit. Visits must be booked at least two weeks in advance and are arranged on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to staff and room availability.
Preparing for Your Class Visit
1. What should I do in advance to prepare for my class visit?
As you schedule your visit with the librarian, please indicate if there are particular topics, themes, projects or assignments you would like covered during your visit.
2. What should I expect during my class visit?
In addition to any special requests, the librarian will introduce your students to the library's services and resources. Information will be sent home for the adult caregiver about registering for a library card.
3. What can my students borrow from the Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library?
Students who have a MPHPL library card can borrow books, magazines, DVDs, CDs, audiobooks and Vox books. They can also use their library cards to access eBooks, apps, and databases, including Libby, ABCmouse and Brainfuse HelpNow.
4. How can my students access digital materials?
Students can borrow digital materials with a MPHPL library card using a computer, tablet or smartphone.
5. Where can students use their library cards?
A Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library card can be used at the Mishawaka Library, Bittersweet Branch and Harris Branch, as well as online at mphpl.org.
6. How can my students get a MPHPL library card?
Your student and their adult caregiver can visit any of our locations and apply for a card.
7. What else does the library offer?
The Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library offers various programs and services, from early literacy programs to teen gaming after school. MPHPL offers summer and winter reading programs for all ages, plus other events throughout the year.
Would you rather the library come to you?
Our MPHPL Community Engagement team is also available to visit schools in the community served by our library. We are happy to visit classrooms for book talks, book clubs, research projects and more. To schedule a classroom visit, contact MPHPL (574) 259-5277 ext. 1701. Visits must be booked at least two weeks in advance and are arranged on a first-come, first-served basis and subject to staff availability.