No matter how young we are, or how old we get, taking the time to relax with a favorite hobby, crafting activity or recreational pastime is something all can benefit from. These things help us to reduce stress, spend time with family and friends and keep our minds active. This time of year, after Christmas and before the New Year, can be a good time to rediscover a hobby, or find something new to try, and your Abilene Public Library has a great database providing instruction in practically all areas of hobbies, crafts, and recreational activities.
The Hobbies & Crafts Reference Center is accessible 24/7 from any computer with Internet access (as well as your tablets and mobile devices). All you need is a valid library card. Once you get started you’ll find informational resources on some 160 different hobbies free for the taking and all compiled in one place. It’s really that easy.
Start by visiting the Abilene Public Library’s website at www.abilenetx.gov/apl, scroll down a bit and then click on the “E-Resources” link which is the second graphic from the right-hand side of the screen. You’ll find the link for the Hobbies & Crafts Reference Center listed under the “Do-It-Yourself” subject heading. When you click on the name, you’ll need your 13-digit library card number to access the full database.
Once you log in, you’ll see a streamlined interface that’s easy for you to use. If you already know of a craft or activity you want information on, enter your search terms using the internal search box provided in the upper left-hand corner of the screen. However, if you’d simply like to browse through some of the areas, you’re also provided with category options to help guide you to an area you’re interested in. Sometimes that’s the best option to use if you don’t know what you want…or am I just speaking for myself here?
For instance, some of the areas you can wander through include Arts & Crafts, Collecting, Home & Garden, Indoor Recreation, Kids’ Crafts, Model Building, Outdoor Recreation, and much more. From ceramics and mosaics, to canoeing and bungee jumping; just about any type of hobby, craft, or activity is covered and you’ll have what you need to know to get started in each. Talk about convenience!
For each area, you’ll be given a listing of various projects and activities, instructions for them, additional ideas and suggestions, and also some great options to save your document by downloading what you need, printing off a copy, emailing it to yourself, and more.
This database is truly designed for anyone who may want to find more resources to strengthen their skills in their favorite hobby or pastime. Who knows, you may discover new activities you didn’t know you wanted to try such as caving, bird watching, winemaking or soapmaking, and the list goes on and on.
With a comprehensive collection of full-text articles, you’ll find authoritative information compiled from more than 1,500 books and magazines, as well as over 700 videos available for viewing on select topics housed in the database.
All of this and more is available for you to access whenever you like, and all you need is a valid library card. If you don’t have one, visit one of our three branch locations and get one today. Plus, if you need any help using the Hobbies & Crafts Reference Center, or you have any questions, never hesitate to contact us at 325-676-6025. Perhaps you’ll find a great new hobby to enjoy throughout the new year of 2020!
Article Contributed by Tremain Jackson, Technology/Multimedia Manager