Library website connects Airmen, information

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Benjamin Raughton
  • 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  Libraries are known as places for reading and learning. Often associated with halls of books and a quiet atmosphere, the quintessential library is changing.

Libraries now have fewer books and more computers, frequently accompanied by multimedia centers. As libraries adapt to the digital age, websites become a primary link between libraries and their card-carrying members.

The Barksdale Air Force Base Library launched an upgraded website March 26 that offers many of the same services as the library, even after the doors close for the day.

Rachel Patterson, 2nd Force Support Squadron library systems administrator, re-launched the website, www.barksdalelibrary.org, in an effort to make the website more user-friendly with easier access to commonly-used services.

Such services include the catalog, which is a listing of all books and resources located within the library, and learning resources such as the transparent language program, electronic books and audiobooks.

"When our doors are closed, people can still access the services the library offers," said Patterson, "Now you can go online and find what you need any time of day."

Not only does the website provide access to general library services like the catalog, it provides educational material, which is a vital part of Airmen's careers.

"The Air Force places a high value on education and our services help you get more out of your education," said Patterson. "We want to make sure Airmen have access to all the same resources as they would at top universities."

With the new website, members can gain access to resources such as live online homework help from tutor.com, practice tests from petersons.com, study guides and resume writing guides. By visiting the library, Airmen can obtain a library card and any passwords necessary to access tutoring resources, practice tests and more.

For in-person assistance or to register, the library is located at 744 Douhet Drive, building 4244 and phone assistance may be obtained by calling 456-4101.

"Make sure the first time you visit isn't when you're out processing because we have a lot of resources that can help you in your career," she said.

Barksdale Airmen must be ready to accomplish the mission anytime, anyplace, and the base library shows their support by making materials available online 24 hours a day.