Special Collections

Park Packs

Park Packs: Explore nature with outdoor gear, field guides, and more!

 

Explore nature with a Park Pack! Each backpack is filled with guidebooks, tools, and ideas for exploring a different topic.

Check them out >>

 

Wi-Fi Hotspots

Picture of black Hotspot device, wall plug, and component case

 

Need internet access? Check out a wi-fi hotspot and get online for free!
Supported by Ames Public Library Friends Foundation and First National Bank, Ames.

Request a hotspot >>

 

Launchpad Learning Tablets

Photos of orange launchpad devices next to launchpad logo and slogan

 

Check out a kid-focused tablet with themed educational apps for preschoolers and elementary age kids.

Check them out >>

 

Adventure Pass

Adventure Pass Logo with photos of places to explore with the pass

 

Check out a free pass to participating museums and attractions.

Start your adventure >>

Quick Picks

Blue Quick Picks logo above slogan on a gold and blue jagged background

 

Quick Picks are extra copies of super-popular items that go fast and come back fast, so you have more chances at a lucky find.

Learn More >>

 

STEM Kits

Photo of toy bridges, toy trains, and books about bridges

 

Have fun with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math at home! Each kit has books and activities to help your family explore a theme.

Request a kit >>

 

Book Store & Sales

Photo of Literary Grounds metal text sign above cart of books

 

Buy books, movies and more at great prices from Literary Grounds or our Book Sales.

Learn more >>

Grab and Go Bags

Grab & Go Bags. Find a bag filled with your favorite topic, available in the Lobby!

 

Stop by the Library's lobby and check out a whole bag of books or movies for a specific age group or featuring a topic or genre.

 

Book Club Collection

photo of shelves with library book club collection

Ames Public Library has multiple copies of many books that are popular with book clubs, and they can be checked out for 6 weeks! See the Book Club Collection list in the online catalog or view the PDF.

Find a book >>

 

Farwell T. Brown Photo Archive

Black and white picture of the Collegian Theater in Ames, Iowa

 

The images in this unique photo archive are from Farwell T. Brown's lifetime collection of original photographs, postcards, advertisements, and news articles which chronicle the history of Ames, Iowa. 

Farwell T. Brown Photographic Archive >>