Books for All Ages

The Hickman County Public Library has a collection of over 20,000 books for children, youth and adults. We also have access to interlibrary loan services through the Tennessee State Library System.

Large Print Books

Large Print books are available in both fiction and non-fiction titles. Qualified patrons may also obtain free service from the Tennessee Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped in Nashville at 1-800-342-3308. Information on this service is available from the library staff.

Reference Books

The reference collection includes general and specialized encyclopedias and dictionaries, almanacs, atlases, medical and scientific volumes, college guides, historical and biographical information, business help and other areas. We also have various reference works on our public access computers and periodicals and newspapers in print form. The library staff is available to assist patrons in locating and using information. Telephone reference is available for questions which do not require in-depth research. The Tennessee Electronic Library (TEL) is also available though our library. The password is available from the librarian.

Audio Visuals

The library has a selection of video cassettes for checkout or for use in the library. A television and VCR are located in the community room and may be used by individuals or groups. The library also has a collection of books on tape and other cassettes, including music, foreign language study and others. Our patrons also have acces to R.E.A.D.S. (Regional Ebook and Audiobook Download Service). You will need to download the overdrive software from their website and use you library card number to check out a downloaded book. Checkout is 2 weeks and you may transfer the audio book to your MP3 player. The main library has a filmstrip projector, 16 mm projector and screen available for use in the community room.

Newspapers and Magazines

The library subscribes to the Tennessean and the Hickman County Times. Back issues of the Times are available on microfilm at the main library. Current issues of magazines on a variety of subjects are available for browsing. Topics include travel, health, current affairs, science, sports, business, and homemaking. Back issues of many titles are available in the reference department. Periodical databases are also available online at the library through Tennessee Electronic Library.

Public Access

Computers Both libraries have public access computers with internet. These computers have a wide variety of software for patrons' use, including word processing and other office titles, streets and maps, children's games, encyclopedias, atlases and other reference works. Users must sign in at the desk and time is limited to 1 hour. Children under 10 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. All users must sign a Computer and Internet Use agreement, which is kept on file at the library. Printing costs 15 cents per page, payable at the circulation desk. Our wireless network is available for use with patrons' laptop or notebook computers in the library.

Local History Room

This collection, located at the main libary, is devoted to genealogy and other local history research. In addition to books on Hickman County, surrounding counties, Tennessee and other states, the main library has microfilm rolls of official Hickman County records, Hickman County Times, Hickman County Census, individual family histories and other historical records. Also available are Hickman County High School Annuals, periodicals, telephone directories, loose historical records and newspaper clippings.

Microfilm Reader/Printer

A microfilm reader/printer is available in the local history room at the main library. Copies are 15 cents per page.

Special Programs

Special programs and story hours are held from time to time at both libraries. For information on these and other events at the library, check the calendar.

Summer Reading Program

The library offers a Summer Reading Program for children during June and July. Story hours are held each week and children may earn awards for reading and keeping a reading log. Sign up begins June 1 of each year.

Community Room

The library meeting rooms have a capacity of about 60 and is available by reservation. Groups using the room must comply with library policy for its use. There is no charge for non-profit organizations; individuals or other groups pay a $10 fee. Reservations may be made by calling the library at 729-5130 for the main library or 670-5767 at the East branch.

Copy Machine and Fax

Both libraries provide copying and a public use fax machine. Copiers produce single or double sided pages in black and white and color. (Color copier only available at the main library) The copier also can reduce and enlarge. Black and white copies are 15 cents per page, color copies are 25 cents per page. We can also scan and print photos from the computer. Patrons may fax documents for a charge of $1.00 (up to 10 pages). The charge for receiving a fax is 50 cents. The fax number is (931) 729-4151 at the main library and (931)670-1933 at the East branch. Please call the library before having a fax sent.

Displays and Exhibits

The library encourages citizens to reserve the display case for artworks, special collections, crafts, and other items of interest. The display case is a locked glass case and is available for one month at a time. The library also has space available in the community room for art displays by individuals, classes or groups. If you have a display you would like to share, contact the library.