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 >>

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 >>

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 >>

Beyond Books

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

Wi-Fi Hotspots

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 Tablets

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

Check them out >>

Videogames

Borrow videogames for PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Wii, and WiiU for free!

Get Your Game On >>

Adventure Pass

Check out a free pass to participating museums and attractions.

Start your adventure >>

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 >>

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

STEM Kits

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 >>

Roleplaying Game Kit advertisement with image of a sword and shield over a castle landscape

Roleplaying Game Kits

The Library’s Role Playing Game Kits contain everything needed to get started. The only thing missing is the imagination and fun which comes from you!

GET YOUR GAME ON >>

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

Local History

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.