St. Louis County Library details services, winter programs and card use

St. Louis County Library is stressing what it offers residents this winter: warm public spaces, free Wi-Fi, food support and multiple ways to borrow books and other materials across systems. Those services matter for public health and equity as cold weather, food insecurity and digital gaps increase demand for safe, low-cost community resources.

The library system serves St. Louis County from 20 branches and identifies its mission as to “provide the resources and services to enrich individual minds, enhance lives and expand perspectives.” The system reported circulating more than 11 million items in 2023 and is part of the MOBIUS partnership that gives patrons access to over 60 million items from academic, special and public libraries. Patrons can request MOBIUS materials through the MOBIUS online catalog with delivery to their local branch in less than five days, expanding options for people who rely on libraries for job searches, schoolwork or health information.

After a decade-long renovation campaign funded in part by a six-cent property tax increase approved in 2012, St. Louis County Library completed the “Your Library Renewed” program with the July 2024 opening of the Clark Family Branch. The campaign’s purpose was to update the branches to be modern libraries, with technology and space for modern patrons, including comfortable sitting areas, vending machines, community rooms, dedicated space for children and teens, and more technology like computers. Clark Family Branch is the system’s largest branch and replaces the old headquarters building in Ladue at 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd.

Local residents should note practical access options. Reciprocal borrowing agreements let cardholders use many nearby systems, including St. Louis Public Library and St. Charles City-County Library. Sweet Reads, a bookmobile operating in and around Spanish Lake, does not require a library card and operates on an honor system so neighbors can take books without upfront registration. Homebound delivery and mobile visits mail materials or allow pickup for residents who cannot visit branches.

Public health and social service partnerships are woven into routine library work. St. Louis County Library and Operation Food Search run food and nutrition programs and a winter food drive. As the library posted on social media: “Library ! 🥫 Every can counts, and each donation helps fill the shelves of those in need this winter. Food donations are still being accepted at any SLCL branch through January 30 and will help us continue our mission to heal hunger across the bi-state region. #WinterFoodDrive #SLCL #OperationFoodSearch #EndHungerSTL” The library also offers diapers, period supplies, wellness programming such as yoga and mental health awareness, and senior services including tax help and outreach.

Year-round programming runs from storytimes and STEM activities to small business help like the 8-week Empowering Encore Entrepreneurs series for ages 55+ and community events such as a Lachi performance at Clark Family Branch. For schedules, borrowing limits and current event years, check with your local SLCL branch or the library’s online information. For many residents, the library remains a frontline resource that combines warm shelter, basic needs support and pathways to information and opportunity.