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Database Searching, Simplified

A new feature on our website makes it easier to use research databases by picking them for you — or letting you search more than one at once.

The library gives you access to nearly two dozen databases full of all kinds of reliable information. In the past, you’ve had to pick just one to search. Now you can choose a general topic or the kind of material you want, such as “business, ” “medical,” “magazine search,” or “phone/address directory.” Type in what you’re looking for, and the best databases will be searched automatically.

More advanced search options are also available. Experienced users can choose a combination of databases to search, enter several search terms, or limit a search by publication date. more

Where to Find Our Databases

When you are using the library catalog, you may see a tab labeled “Databases.” Those databases are provided by Lincoln Trail Libraries System for its member libraries. To find more databases available only to Champaign card holders, always start at our website. Look for the “How do I…” drop-down menu and choose “Use databases” to link to our Databases & Encyclopedias page.

Business Know-How

Whether you want to start a new business on the right foot or get a leg up on the competition, we can help you get the know-how to do it right. The library is taking a larger role in supporting local business with help from a $100,000 grant. Starting in late February, look for:

  • A new website, bizknowhow.org, with easy-to-navigate information about CU resources, starting a business, money and legal issues, marketing, and more. It will be an interactive wiki, so you can share what you know, too. You’ll also find business book recommendations, plus links to powerful databases such as the Wall Street Journal Online
  • “Ask an Expert,” where business experts will share tips online and invite your questions or comments
  • A free series of workshops on business topics at the library
  • An improved collection of business materials at the library more

Baby Fest 3

Bring your little one to the library during the week of Feb. 12 for a bonanza of activities to engage young minds, fingers, and feet! Our annual Baby Fest gives new parents a great chance to sample our free programs. Check our event calendar for details.

Books for Babies

Our annual Baby Fest also sends out this important message: babies need books! That’s why we give the parents of every new baby in our community a free packet of baby board books plus reading tips for parents and the library’s own CD, Baby Boogie! A gift from the Library Friends is providing these packets to hospitals this year.

Homework About Illinois: Check Our Website

When the teacher gives an assignment about the people, places, plants, or animals of Illinois, we’ve got you covered. The Homework Help section of our website has links to the best resources, both books and online, about Illinois. There’s also a page about Champaign history with good books for grown-ups, too. While our web pages are good places to start, our librarians are always happy to help you, too. Just contact us!

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February 07

Patio Pavers Reserved

The engraved pavers for our new library patio were all reserved by mid-January, thanks to many generous donors. Other opportunities for permanent recognition in the new library remain. Contact Donna Pittman, development director, for details at 217/403–2048 or dpittman@champaign.org. more

Chillin’ @ the Library

Middle and high school students can win prizes for reading cool books in this February reading club. Read what you like, then submit a reading form at the library or online. We’ll have weekly drawings, plus grand prize drawings for $25 gift cards. more

Caudill Award: Kids Vote on the Bookmobile

Voting for the Rebecca Caudill Young Readers’ Award, named for author Rebecca Caudill, a long-time resident of Urbana, will happen Feb. 19 to 23. Kids in grades 4 to 8 who haven’t voted at school can vote at any Bookmobile stop. But, kids need to read at least three of the nominated books first.

Best-seller Sale Starts March 1

Buy gently used best-sellers from our Rental Collection for 75 percent off the retail price at our next Best-seller Sale (what we used to call a Rental Sale). The sale starts Thurs., Mar. 1, at the Main Library, with dozens of recent titles to choose from. You get bargain prices, and the proceeds help buy new books for the library.

Would your teen like an iPod?

Teens who get a new library card by Mar. 31 could win an iPod nano or a $25 gift card to Target, Best Buy, or Borders. But they need a little help from Mom or Dad. Visit the library with your teen to get a card (you need to sign for it). You’ll get a free cup of delicious coffee, and your teen gets a free ice cream cone from the Dunkin’ Donuts Baskin-Robbins at the corner of Neil and Green. Prizes funded by the Library Friends. more

Contact Us

Visit champaign.org
Send e-mail to librarian@champaign.org
Your Account 217/403–2000
Info Desk 217/403–2070
Children 217/403–2030
more contact info

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