Special Collections

Special Collections of Books & Movies

Black Book Nook

The Black Book Nook collection fosters education and community engagement with Black history, thought, literature, and culture. This collection was created in partnership with the Iowa State University Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion | Office of Equal Opportunity.

Explore the Nook >>

Grab & Go Bags

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.

Quick Picks

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 >>

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 >>

Beyond Books

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 >>

Adventure Pass

Check out a free pass to participating museums and attractions.

Start your adventure >>

Launchpad Learning Tablets

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

Check them out >>

Park Packs

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

Check them out >>

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 >>

Local History

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

Search the Farwell T. Brown local photo archive, read The Tribune back to 1877, browse yearbooks and more in the Heritage Room, and find out about our history and genealogy events and resources.