Decorah Public LIbrary adds new resources

Decorah Public Library is now offering two new, free online services for library cardholders--Zinio digital magazines and Mango Languages language-learning system.

"Zinio for Libraries" allows library patrons to read, interact with and explore a large selection of magazines simply by logging in with their library card.  Using a Mac or PC (or a variety of internet-enabled devices including iPhones, iPads, and Androids), readers ill be able to access the library's catalog of selected digital magazines.

Zinio's unique digital platform recreates a magazine page-for-page, including highly visual full-color pictures, while taking the reading experience even further through intuitive navigation, key word article search and interactive rich media elements such as audio and video. Consumer Reports, Eating Well, The Economist, ESPN Magazine, Forbes, National Geographic, and Newsweek are just a few of the popular titles that will be available through Decorah Public Library's Zinio subscription.  

Mango Languages, which is also free for all library cardholders thanks to the generous support of the Friends of Decorah Public Library, offers a fast and convenient solution for the community's language-learning needs. Each lesson combines real life situations and audio from native speakers with simple, clear instructions. The courses are presented with an appreciation for cultural nuance and real-world application that integrates components of vocabulary, pronunciation, grammar and culture. Users learn actual conversation, breaking down complex linguistic elements within an audio-visual framework that draws important connections and builds on information they have already learned.

Mango is available in two versions. One is Mango Complete, a 100-lesson course that is designed to provide a deep understanding of a language and its culture. The second is Mango Basic, which teaches everyday greetings, goodbyes and helpful phrases in a short period of time and is designed to appeal to a beginner in a new language. There are more than 40 foreign language courses available and 16 English as a Second Language (ESL) courses.

Both Zinio and Mango are now available through the Decorah Public Library's website, www.decorah.lib.ia.us.  Library cardholders may follow a simple set of instructions to set up free personal Zinio and Mango accounts remotely (from home, work, or anywhere there is internet access); library staff will also be available to help navigate the set-up process in person at the library. 

Administrative Coordinator Kristin Torresdal hosts a walk-in help session for tech questions related to e-readers, the NEIBORS e-book lending program, Zinio, and Mango on Tuesday afternoons from 1-3 p.m. Those interested may also contact Torresdal at 382-3717 or ktorresdal@decorah.lib.ia.us for help over the phone or to set up another time to meet at the library.

According to Decorah Public Library Director Lorraine Borowski, "Digital services for library cardholders are an increasingly important part of what libraries are offering their communities today. Patrons are incredibly active in the online sphere and we aim to provide them with the content and services that they want and need in a way that is convenient for them. We are pleased to announce the addition of these new services and we welcome feedback from the community."

Call the library at 563-382-3717 or email ktorresdal@decorah.lib.ia.us for more information.