
National Library Week is usually recognized as the second full week in April, so it's a great time to explore what's available at your local library.
The Columbus Metro Library is much more than just books on the shelf – although those are certainly still there. You can also get all kinds of help, knowledge, and entertainment courtesy of the library, from downloading a movie to researching your family's history. And even better, resources are free with a library card.
Check out the following 10 things you probably didn't know about the Columbus Metro Library:
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Need some help from a lawyer? You may think even asking a few questions may be expensive, but you can sign up for 20 minutes of free legal advice from a volunteer attorney through the Columbus Metro Library. Common topics that these attorneys handle include eviction/foreclosure, custody issues, and debt collection, although they also help with other legal issues.
The Columbus Metro Library has plenty of resources to help you make sure your child is ready to start kindergarten. It has online classes with readiness tips, as well as free packets you can pick up at any branch library to help your child complete lessons, including cutting and writing, name recognition, and more. Virtual storytimes are held multiple times a week, including interactive ones. Finally, you can sign up to receive emails with tips, activities, and book suggestions for young kids.
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If you're like most parents, helping your child with his or her homework can get pretty tricky as they start to get older. Fortunately, the library will help answer homework questions for kindergarten through grade 12 via text, phone call, or online chat. For younger kids in kindergarten through grade 3, they're also available to read with your child. And if your child needs in-person homework help, it's available five days a week for 45 minutes a session at the Karl Road and Reynoldsburg branches.
The library plans to greatly increase the sizes of the Karl Road and Hilltop branches, and this work is already underway. Work has also started on new Gahanna and Reynoldsburg branches after being delayed because of COVID-19. This will give more patrons the ability to easily access a library close to them and also allow libraries to have more space for activities and materials.
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The Columbus Metro Library provides library cardholders with free access to Hoopla, a digital media service. You'll be able to borrow movies, TV shows, music, audiobooks, ebooks, and comics to your TV, computer, tablet, or phone and enjoy them immediately or save them for later. More materials are added daily, so you'll constantly have access to new content.
The library isn't just available to help children learn to read or help with homework questions. It also has a wealth of resources for adult learners, including technology training for a wide variety of specific programs as well as basic literacy, ESOL, and GED assistance. You'll also find helpful links to community programs offered by The Ohio State University to help with homebuying, renter's education, and money management.
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Even though COVID-19 has caused in-person events to be canceled, the library is still hosting many events online. Storytimes for young children feature books and songs, and adults can attend virtual classes on everything from genealogy to networking and interview preparation. Different branches also host The Breathing Association Medical Mobile Unit, where you can have exams performed, find out information, and get help with prescriptions if you have a breathing issue such as asthma or COPD.
Finding a job – especially during the COVID19 pandemic – can be a daunting task. The Columbus Metro Library has many resources to help, including a job source resource that matches essential businesses with job seekers and a guide to using Indeed, a trusted job search platform. You can also book one-on-one help with a career counselor who can give you personalized advice on your job search and get your resume professionally reviewed within 24 hours.
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If you'd like to find out more about your ancestors or local Ohio history, the library has plenty of online resources to help. Links include sites with information about Central Ohio cemeteries, burial indexes, and gravestone photographs, as well as Fold3, which contains millions of military and genealogy records. You can even visit a site to learn about your home's history and articles, books, and images of historic Central Ohio buildings. And if you need more personalized help, you can reserve one-on-one time with an expert to get more help with any of these topics.
It's one thing to have access to digital content, but if you can't download it to your device, it won't do you much good. Fortunately, the library comes to the rescue with device help. It has step-by-step instructions for downloading content using Google Android, Amazon Kindle, Apple iOS, Windows OS, Nook Color, and Nook Simple Touch. And if you still need more help, book a one-on-one online appointment.
Which of the Columbus Metro Library's many resources have you used?

No matter which corner of Ohio you call home, you're likely to have a great public golf course located close to your front door. Ohio has a long tradition of outstanding golf, with a variety of PGA Tour events happening in the state every year and several inviting courses for golfers of all experience levels. Best of all, you won't need a membership to play at some of the most enjoyable public courses in Columbus, Cincinnati, Northeast Ohio, and beyond. With golf season around the corner, now is the perfect time to find your new favorite course with our list of nine of the best public golf courses around Ohio.
5650 Quarry Lake Dr., Canton, OH 44730
Start your tour of Northeast Ohio golf courses with a trip to The Quarry Golf Club & Venue, which was built on a historic quarry and features some of the most stunning scenery that you'll find on any golf course in Ohio. With towering cliffs, large water features, tree-lined fairways, and scenic streams winding throughout the course, you're sure to love the views from the tee box. The 18-hole layout here is challenging but accessible, with unique course design thanks to the quarry setting. You will also find a full pro shop, an inviting clubhouse, and a great place to grab a bite after your round at the Granite Grille.
294 W. Turkeyfoot Lake Rd., Akron, OH 44319
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Established in 1925, Turkeyfoot Lake Golf Links has been providing an outstanding golf experience to Akron residents for nearly a century, with a 27-hole layout that will appeal to golfer of all experience levels. This is a great place to play if you're new to the game, with multiple PGA Golf Professionals available for lessons every day. Enjoy a quick 9 holes, play a full 18, or make it a marathon and play all 27 holes. The course includes challenging water features, tight, tree-lined fairways, and well-manicured greens.
5420 Wolff Rd., Medina, OH 44256
With a 4.5 star rating from Golf Advisor and a reputation for excellence, Shale Creek Golf Club is a public course with all of the trappings of a private club. The 18-hole course, surrounded by woods and water features, is as scenic as it is challenging. There's great dining on-site for unwinding after your round, whether you're playing in a league or hitting the links with a few friends. Thinking of starting your own golf league? Shale Creek Golf Club can help, with league slots available on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday afternoons.
1900 N. Wilson Rd., Columbus, OH 43228
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In the mood for a golf outing, but don't have time to play a full 18 holes? Wilson Road Golf Course has you covered, with a 9-hole, executive golf course that's perfect for a round after work or on a weekend morning. It's a great place to visit if you're new to the game or want to teach your kids how to play golf. There are also leagues for all ages – kids included – where you can enjoy great golf and make some new friends in the process.
3900 Westerville Rd., Columbus, OH 43224
Champions Golf Course is a long-time Columbus favorite and is part of an excellent collection of courses maintained by the City of Columbus Recreation and Parks Department. The course was designed by famed golf course architect Robert Trent Jones and is known as one of the most challenging public golf courses in the area. Stop at the driving range before your round to sharpen your skills, and grab some new gear from the pro shop. Champions Golf Course also has an expansive new 10,000-square-foot clubhouse, which includes a grill room and banquet space.
1145 Clubhouse Ln., Pickerington, OH 43147
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Named after one of the most famous, historic golf courses in Europe, Turnberry Golf Course provides an exciting, links-style layout that you won't have to travel across the Atlantic to enjoy. This 18-hole course is filled with rolling hills, high fescue grass in the rough, large fairways, and tight greens that reward excellent approach shots. While it's quite a challenging course to play from the back tees, there are five different tees that make the course enjoyable and approachable even if you're brand new to the game.
Cincinnati
4040 Cooper Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45241
Blue Ash Golf Course is one of best public golf courses in Cincinnati and has been rated as one of the top 75 municipal golf courses in the country by Golf Digest. If you're looking for a challenge, then you're sure to find it at this championship-style layout. The course is always beautifully maintained, and is open year-round weather permitting. After your round, stop by the Sandtrap Grill for some delicious seafood, steaks, and all of your favorite drinks.
1831 Hudepohl Ln., Cincinnati, OH 45231
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Searching for a local golf course that the whole family can enjoy? Beech Creek Golf Course features an 18-hole layout that's perfect for introducing kids and new players to golf in a fun yet challenging setting. Play the full 18 holes including the more challenging front 9, or simply play the back 9 for a quick round with the family. The pro shop is the perfect place to stock up on supplies before you enjoy a round of golf, while the bar & grill has everything you need to recharge while discussing your latest round with your group.
10965 Springfield Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45246
When you're in the mood for a long, enjoyable round of golf, be sure to check out the 27-hole Glenview Golf Course, where you can pick your favorite 18 holes to play from three unique 9-hole layouts. It's also a great place to work on your game, with expansive practice facilities and expert instruction available. Glenview Golf Club offers extensive junior golf programs where kids of all ages can learn about and fall in love with the game.
Ohio golf courses are the perfect places to stretch your legs and enjoy some outdoor fun throughout the spring, summer, and fall this year. With so many outstanding courses to choose from, your Ohio golf journey is only just beginning.

February is the shortest month of the year, but as we eagerly await the start of spring, it can feel like an eternity. Why not use this time to discover the amazing small businesses around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati?
Cutler Real Estate wants to spread the word about the fascinating assortment of restaurants and shops in these areas. We've partnered with LoLo Gifts to extend these great free offers from some of our favorite vendors.
Akron: Breakfast for Two or a Sandwich
Cincinnati: Burger or BBQ Sandwich
620 Ridgewood Crossing, Akron, OH 44333
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Don't be fooled by the name. Yes, Tiffany's Bakery has first-rate cakes and baked goods, but you'll be equally delighted by their variety of sandwiches, served deli-style or panini-grilled on bread that's baked fresh daily.
Family-owned Tiffany's Bakery has been a fixture in Akron for more than 40 years. Their exquisite specialty cakes for all occasions have earned them regular awards from local media as voted on by satisfied customers.
330.668.2253
Monday - Saturday 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Sunday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
920 Tuscarawas St. W, Canton, OH 44702
Want a quick lunch, but you're tired of fast food? Head to Sister's Soul Food for a sandwich and side featuring old-school favorites such as fried catfish, breaded pork chops, and macaroni and cheese.
At Sister's Soul Food, you're greeted with a sign that reads, "Cooking with love provides food for the soul." Owner Tracy Foster's cooking, featuring recipes she learned from her mother, draws fans from Cleveland, Akron, and all around Ohio.
330.458.1281
Tuesday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
400 Wyoming Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45215
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Station Family + BBQ calls itself a "neighborhood block party." You'll definitely feel like celebrating after one bite of their tasty burger or BBQ sandwich.
Traditional BBQ favorites such as brisket, pulled pork, and baked beans get an updated twist at Station Family BBQ. Everything is made from scratch, including their signature spoonbread and five different sauces.
513.679.6797
Thursday 5 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Friday - Saturday 4 p.m. - 8 p.m
Sunday 4 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Currently open for carryout, curbside pickup, and designated outdoor seating.
1160 Kenny Centre Mall, Columbus, OH 43220
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Add some accessories that spark joy in your home decor. Use your certificate toward the beautifully stylish items found at J Avenue.
The clean, minimalist features of Japanese design make it a fit in any home. J Avenue carries a wide range of traditional and contemporary Japanese products, from health and beauty items to trendy Hello Kitty and Pokemon accessories.
614.451.7008
Monday - Sunday Noon - 6 p.m.
114 E. Liberty St., Wooster, OH 44691
Treat a loved one (or yourself!) to one of the irresistible items from JK Gift Shop. Whether you want whimsical, practical, or a bit of both, you'll find something for everyone.
Sisters Julie McNabb and Katie Heinz were already successful owners of The Interior Design Studio, which their mother founded in 1999. They decided to use their sense of style and knowledge of customers' tastes to open JK Gift Shop within their existing business.
330.725.7623
Monday - Friday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
207 S. Court St., Medina, OH 44256
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You don't need a special occasion to visit JK Gift Shop. There's always something new to find among the extensive selection of apparel, home decor, jewelry, bath and body products, and baby items.
Julie McNabb and Katie Heinz are more than just the "J" and "K" in the shop's name. Their know-how, instincts, and eye for style are behind every one of the delightful products you'll see inside.
330.725.7623
Monday - Friday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday Noon - 5 p.m.
313 N. Water St., Kent, OH 44240
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Coffee: it's not just for breakfast. Start your day or get an afternoon pick-me-up with a delicious latte and pastry from Bent Tree Coffee.
Every beverage from Bent Tree Coffee is prepared with the same love of coffee that inspired the owners to open the shop in 2011. High-quality Arabica green coffee beans are roasted in-house in small batches for superior taste from first sip to last.
Monday - Friday 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday - Sunday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Carryout and curbside pickup are available.

So there must be a catch to claim these great offers, right? The best part of our program with LoLo Gifts is that there's absolutely no obligation on your part. All you have to do to receive exciting new freebies every month is contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to get started.

Baristas are some of our greatest unsung heroes. Seriously, can you imagine having gotten through this last year without coffee? They're some of our most essential workers, and they hardly ever get thanked.
Well, now's your chance. Barista day is coming up on March 1st, and it's a great opportunity to support some of our great local coffee shops in the Columbus area. Be sure to thank your barista while you're there, and maybe leave a little something extra in that tip jar!
1051 N. 4th St., Columbus, OH 43201
A cozy brick-walled coffee shop and roastery in a reclaimed industrial space, Mission Coffee Co. offers some of the finest coffee in Columbus. Every bean is roasted and brewed to perfection. Their coffees are sourced from all around the world before being roasted in Mission Coffee's local Columbus facility, and their friendly and knowledgeable staff will happily help you choose the right brew for your palate.
4541 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214
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A small local chain with a handful of locations in and around Columbus, Crimson Cup Coffee Shop is a great place to grab a quick cup of coffee when you're on the go. The Clintonville location, just a few minutes from the Ohio State University Campus, even has a drive-through window to save time. Crimson Cup also offers a cool brew bar inside, where various single-origin coffees are brewed by the cup to order.
79 Parsons Ave., Columbus, OH 43215
The folks at Upper Cup Coffee Co. do a seemingly simple thing—find the best coffee beans from all around the world—and they do it incredibly well. Upper Cup started out in 2010 as a wholesale coffee business but opened a retail shop the following year as their coffee quickly gained an ardent local following. This is the perfect place to sit and savor a finely crafted pour-over or a delicately foamy cappuccino. They serve tasty teas and iced beverages too and have a short-and-simple menu of breakfast and lunch staples to go with your drink.
849 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
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This cozy coffee shop in the Short North Arts District is more than just a place to get coffee. It's a real neighborhood focal point, displaying works by local artists and serving pastries from local bakeries. They also serve rich house-roasted coffee and some of the tastiest, frothiest espresso drinks you're ever likely to taste.
2250 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
This High Street Hangout is many things to many people. It's a thriving arts space that often hosts live music and entertainment. It's a quiet place to study. It's a late-night watering hole serving craft beer and cocktails. Above all, it's a great coffee shop. And whether you need a jolt of espresso to get you going in the morning or a strong Irish coffee to help you wind down, Kafe Kerouac is a great, friendly space in which to enjoy it.
627 S. 3rd St. #1060, Columbus, OH 43206
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Stauf's was one of Columbus' first micro-roasters when it first opened its doors, and this German Village mainstay has stuck around to become one of the city's most beloved coffee shops. They offer great gourmet espresso drinks and brewed coffee, plus and beans to-go, with welcoming indoor and outdoor seating areas. Be sure to check out their baked goods too, including brownies, muffins, scones, and even house-made dog treats.
3535 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214
With a focus on bringing quality, ethically sourced coffee to Ohio, Global Gallery Coffee Shop is truly a global-minded space. All their coffees are Fair Trade certified, and the coffee shop is involved with a wide range of projects and initiatives, including the Women Crafting Change project. Global Gallery's indoor space is a popular place for students to sip coffee while studying, and the outdoor patio is a great spot to enjoy an iced latte during the warmer months.
329 E. Long St., Columbus, OH 43215
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Brioso Roastery & Coffee Bar is one of the best places in Columbus to sample truly unique, flavorful single-origin coffees from all corners of the globe. Their beans are sourced from farmers in some of the world's greatest coffee-producing regions, and then roasted to perfection in-house. You may want to take a bag home with you after you've finished your coffee. Brioso Roastery also offers outstanding espresso drinks and a light lunch menu.
745 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
Nestled in Columbus' Short North neighborhood, One Line Coffee offers small-batch coffees, roasted to order. It's a great place to grab a bag of beans to brew at home, but the shop's warm, welcoming brick-lined interior is the kind of place that encourages you to stay a while. Besides, their hand-poured coffees and finely tuned espresso drinks are worth savoring slowly. One Line Coffee also has a second location in Franklinton.
1031 N. 4th St., Columbus, OH 43201
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Offering superb coffee and next-level baked goods, Fox in the Snow Cafe is a beloved fixture of the local coffee scene, with three locations around Columbus. It all started at their flagship location in Italian Village in 2014, and the business took off so quickly that additional shops quickly popped up in German Village and New Albany. Food & Wine Magazine ranked Fox in the Snow among the best coffee shops in America in 2019, and folks keep coming back for the amazing coffee and friendly, rustic-chic ambiance.
541 S. 3rd St., Columbus, OH 43215
Located in historic German Village, Pistacia Vera is a from-scratch bakery that also serves up a delicious cup of coffee. Combinations like a Raspberry Vanilla Latte and Raspberry Macarons are sure to please and keep you coming back for more delectable French pastries and coffee creations. Don't forget to add a chocolate truffle or two to your order. Pistacia Vera is open 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. seven days a week.
We're lucky to live in a city with some of the greatest coffee shops and most talented baristas around. Did we forget to mention your favorite Columbus coffee shop? Let us know in the comments section!

Valentine's Day is just around the corner, but planning the perfect date night might be tricky this year given indoor dining restrictions and health and safety concerns. However, that doesn't mean you can't enjoy the holiday with your sweetie in the comfort of your own home. With so many fantastic Ohio restaurants offering Valentine's Day takeout, you can have a date night at your own dining room table or while watching your favorite movie.
Whether you're planning to celebrate with your special someone or just getting together with a group of friends, a delicious meal is at the center of every great Valentine's Day. Below are some of our recommendations for Valentine's Day takeout around Ohio.
2198 Murray Hill Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
Nothing says romance quite like a classic Italian dinner, so we recommend trying Michelangelo's Italian Restaurant in Cleveland. With exquisite Italian cuisine prepared by award-winning chef Michael Annandono, this restaurant is absolutely fantastic. The menu features a variety of pasta, meats, and fish, and for dessert, you can enjoy some of the best Tiramisu in Cleveland. Takeout is available for both pickup and delivery, and you can place your order online.
13664 Pearl Rd., Strongsville, OH 44136
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If you're just south of Cleveland, you might want to consider Don's Pomeroy House for takeout this year. This historic restaurant is on the National Register of Historic Places and is also a popular Valentine's Day destination. They serve a variety of winter comfort foods like Kobe Meatloaf and Chicken Parmesan as well as seafood sources from all over the world. If you'd prefer not to dine-in this year, you can order your food to-go, or for a truly romantic option, reserve one of their outdoor winter igloos.
11401 Bellflower Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
Located in an old carriage house near Case Western Reserve University, L'Albatros is a classic Valentine's Day destination near Cleveland. This year, their entire menu is available for takeout so you can complement your stay-at-home Valentine's Day with some contemporary French cuisine. The French Onion Soup is a must-try and the braised pork shank with whole grain mustard sauce is a popular dish!
1447 Grandview Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
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For some delicious Italian dishes near Columbus, order a romantic dinner from Trattoria Roma. This restaurant has been open for over 30 years and offers all of your favorite pasta dishes with a personal touch. All ingredients are locally sourced, and they offer special takeout menus and specials that change monthly, so be sure to check out what they have in store for Valentine's Day. Carryout and delivery can both be ordered on their website.
641 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
Online ordering is available this Valentine's Day at The Pearl restaurant. This trendy, romantic establishment has two locations: one in downtown Columbus and one in Dublin, Ohio. The dinner menu has an excellent mix of seafood and modern dishes, and they also have a separate menu for their oyster room. Best of all, you can top off your stay-at-home Valentine's Day with one of their unique cocktail kits for two.
1092 Bethel Rd., Columbus, OH 43220
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Housed in a former church building, The Refectory has become a Valentine's Day tradition for many couples in Central Ohio. While they're open for limited dine-in seating, they also offer a wonderful three-course home dinner menu with French favorites like Boeuf Bourguignon and Roasted Cornish Hen. For dessert, try the Epiphany Cake — an almond frangipane baked in layers of puff pastry. They even offer a wide variety of cocktails to-go! Orders can be placed online, but they do request that you order home dinners at least one day ahead of time.
810 Matson Pl., Cincinnati, OH 45204
While this romantic Cincinnati destination is known for its view, they do have a delicious menu that is available for takeout this Valentine's Day. Primavista offers a fine contemporary menu with dishes from all areas of Italy. They really specialize in veal and fresh fish, and all sauces are made from scratch. If you're celebrating Valentine's Day with friends, Primavista is also offering a family-style menu with dishes that serve 4 to 6 people.
118 E. 6th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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For an excellent Valentine's Day dinner, try a takeout order from Sotto in downtown Cincinnati. Their takeout menu features delicious pasta classics such as Tortellini Con Zucca and Rigatoni Con Pomodoro as well as some classic Italian pork and seafood dishes. Not only do they have cocktail specials to go, they also have two bottle wine baskets available for purchase. For dessert, you have to try the famous ricotta donuts with sauce! Carryout can be ordered by phone.
580 Walnut St. #100, Cincinnati, OH 45202
This classic Cincinnati steakhouse is offering curbside carryout and delivery this Valentine's Day. Prime Cincinnati offers some of the best steaks in the area, with the highlight of the menu being the Ohio Reserve Waygu steak. They have a wide variety of seafood options that can be added to your steak to create the perfect surf-and-turf combination. The takeout menu features a create-your-own, three-course meal starting at $50 per person. If a romantic steak dinner sounds like a good Valentine's Day, be sure to try Prime Cincinnati.
Where will you order your takeout this Valentine's Day?