
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 ā 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:
View this post on Instagram
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.
View this post on Instagram
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.
View this post on Instagram
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.
View this post on Instagram
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 ā especially during the COVID19 pandemic ā 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.
View this post on Instagram
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?Ā

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 golfĀ 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
View this post on Instagram
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.Ā
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
View this post on Instagram
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 ā kids included ā 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
View this post on Instagram
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 CincinnatiĀ 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
View this post on Instagram
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.

Is it truly time to shake off the winter chill, and welcome the first signs of spring? You bet! The days are growing longer, the temperatures are rising, and the first flowers are emerging from the soil at greenspaces all around Columbus. Whether you're interested in a quiet, tranquil walk, a chance to gaze at gorgeous gardens, or the perfect place for a fun, outdoor family outing, there's certain to be a local greenspace with your name on it. Find your happy place with our guide to 9 of the best greenspaces in Columbus.
160 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
There's always something new to experience when you visit the John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons, a popular urban greenspace located in the heart of downtown Columbus. This park offers a little bit of everything, from flowery gardens and community events to a food truck court that features flavors from around the world. It's also home to the unique NEOS Electric Playground, which is certain to be a hit with younger members of the family.
120 W. Goodale St., Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
With beautiful fountains, a scenic pond, and stunning views of the Columbus skyline, Goodale Park is the perfect place to shake off the winter chill. This is the oldest public park in the city, built on land that was donated by the first physician to practice in Columbus. Along with the scenery, this park has tennis courts for enjoying some outdoor recreation, a playground that is sure to keep the kids entertained, and plenty of lovely places to plan a picnic.
1069 Jaeger St., Columbus, OH 43206
Ever since the land was first converted into a park in the 1800s, Schiller Park has been a local favorite for outdoor recreation and relaxation. The park is named for German poet Friedrich Schiller, and the scenery just might be enough to inspire you to write some poetry of your own. At Schiller Park, you'll find a peaceful fishing pond, a collection of beautifully maintained gardens, and a wide variety of outdoor recreation facilities for enjoying your favorite sports. Schiller Park is also home to the Actor's Summer Theater, where you can enjoy public performances of Shakespeare during the warm weather seasons.
3901 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214
View this post on Instagram
What could be a better way to celebrate the signs of spring than visiting a beautiful rose garden? And the Columbus Park of Roses isn't just any old garden. It features one of the most extensive selections of roses in the entire country, with more than 12,000 specimens when the garden is in full bloom. There are paved paths that make it easy to explore the gardens and plenty of places to snap some great pictures for social media sharing. Be sure to check out the Park of Roses website, where you can see which roses are in bloom before you visit.
152 Howlett Hall 2021, Fyffe Rd., Columbus, OH 43210
Looking for an educational setting where kids can learn while enjoying the great outdoors? The Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens offer a unique blend of outdoor fun and education. The facility is located on the Ohio State University agriculture campus and is free to visit all year long. Enjoy expansive gardens, native trees, gorgeous greenhouses, and plenty of opportunities to learn more about all of the flora on display.
1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203
View this post on Instagram
When you're in the mood for a lush, scenic outdoor setting with activities galore, it's hard to top the experience at Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens. This facility features more than 100 acres of natural beauty to explore, with some of the most stunning gardens that you'll find anywhere. While you're here, be sure to check out the schedule of gardening workshops, educational classes, community events, seasonal farmer's market, and expert-guided tours.
400 W. Whittier St., Columbus, OH 43215
For unique outdoor recreation activities in Columbus, it's hard to top all that the Scioto Audubon Metropark has to offer. Scale a massive rock-climbing wall that can accommodate climbers of all skill levelsĀ and enjoy a wide range of recreational facilities for playing your favorite sports. There's also a popular dog park on-site, perfect for celebrating the start of spring with your furry friend.
233 S. Civic Center Dr., Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
In the mood for a full day of visiting some of the best greenspaces in Columbus? Scioto Mile is a beautiful greenspace on its own, and its paved, well-maintained paths connect to eight other greenspaces within the city. The paths wind along the Scioto River, and offer outstanding views of the city skyline. You'll find unique public art exhibits as you explore the area, and may even encounter some free, public performances depending on when you visit. Be sure to come back again in the summer, when kids can enjoy a splash in the interactive Scioto Mile Fountain.
480 E. Town St., Columbus, OH 43215
If you're searching for something that is uniquely Columbus, then a trip to the Topiary Garden Park is definitely in order. What is a topiary garden, you might ask? It's a good question because this is the only garden of its kind in the whole world!Ā The Topiary Garden Park is a recreation of Georges Seurat's painting, "A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte." But instead of paint, the garden uses sculpted plants and landscaping features to recreate the painting. This is one Columbus attraction that art lovers won't want to miss.
Which outdoor oasis is at the top of your list for celebrating the first signs of spring? The diverse, beautiful greenspaces of Columbus are ready to be explored, with family fun waiting around every corner.

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.Ā
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.Ā
4541 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214
View this post on Instagram
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 thingāfind the best coffee beans from all around the worldāand 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.Ā
849 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
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.Ā
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.Ā
627 S. 3rd St. #1060, Columbus, OH 43206
View this post on Instagram
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, plusĀ 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.Ā
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 enjoyĀ an iced latte during the warmer months.
329 E. Long St., Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
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.Ā
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
View this post on Instagram
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!

Itching to explore the diverse Ohio dining scene and take your taste buds on a trip to Mexico? Whether you're in the mood for curbside pickup, contactless delivery, or socially distanced in-person dining, you'll find countless fantastic, authentic Mexican dining options throughout Ohio communities. From tiny, well-known neighborhood taquerias to luxurious dining destinations with built-in bars, you'll find something for every taste at Ohio's many Mexican restaurants. Get ready to satisfy your craving for authentic Mexican food with our guide to 9 Mexican restaurants located in Ohio communities.
1779 E Market St., Akron, OH 44305
Known for its upbeat atmosphere, friendly staff, delicious drinks, and extensive menu of authentic, flavorful food, Azteca Mexican Restaurant is your destination for Mexican dining in Akron. Azteca Mexican Restaurant strives to create an inviting, family-focused atmosphere, whether you're dining in, enjoying a meal on the outdoor patio, or simply stopping by to pick up a takeout order. If you're searching for a restaurant that offers diverse vegetarian options, this is the perfect place to visit. Online ordering is available anytime, so all you have to do is stop by and pick up your meal.
12501 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, OH 44111
View this post on Instagram
Our journey around Northeast Ohio wouldn't be complete without a trip to the excellent Tapatias Taqueria located in Cleveland. Originally known for its legendary street tacos, this restaurant has grown into one of the city's best all-around Mexican restaurants. It's a casual dining destination with all of your favorite Mexican meals on the menu, along with a full bar serving the best Mexican beer and spirits. Everything on the menu is made from scratch, with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. You can place your order online with the full lunch/dinner menu available for delivery throughout the Cleveland area, or stop by this neighborhood favorite to pick up your food at the curb.
3212 Tuscarawas St. W, Canton, OH 44708
When you're searching for a family-style Mexican meal in Canton, be sure to make a trip to El Rincon Mexican Restaurant. During these unique times, El Rincon is offering drive-thru pickup, so you can grab your favorite Mexican dishes without ever leaving the comfort of your vehicle. There are extensive specials available for both lunch and dinner, with steak, seafood, chicken, and vegetarian dishes available. Be sure to check out the website for some great coupons and deals before you order.
5221 Godown Rd., Columbus, OH 43235
View this post on Instagram
You'll have no shortage of outstanding options for Mexican food in Columbus, including the popular Los Gauchos Taqueria. While everything on the menu is excellent, Los Gauchos Taqueria is especially well-known for its famous Tacos al Pastor. These delicious tacos feature marinated pork, pineapple, fresh cilantro, diced onions, and other fresh ingredients to create a unique flavor profile. The original restaurant was so popular that there are now four locations in the city, so you can always find a convenient place to enjoy your Mexican favorites.
2700 Northland Plaza Dr., Columbus, OH 43231
A colorful, inviting restaurant with a reputation for serving excellent, contemporary Mexican meals, Fiesta Jalisco stands out among a great selection of Mexican restaurants in Columbus. The menu here is focused on the unique combination of Spanish and Indian flavors that have influenced Mexican cooking for centuries, with fresh ingredients that bring out the best in every meal. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a full, satisfying meal, you're sure to find what you seek when you order from Fiesta Jalisco.
4775 E. Main St., Columbus, OH 43213
View this post on Instagram
Known for its enchiladas, shrimp quesadillas, nachos supreme, and much more, Mi Mexico Restaurant is a classic Columbus dining destination with a reputation for excellence. Everything is made fresh to order, and there are always new daily specials when you're in the mood for something different from the regular menu. There's also a unique rewards program, perfect for regular customers who want to earn a delicious, free meal. Place your order online for quick, convenient service, then pick it up at the curb or enjoy fast delivery throughout the Columbus area.
Incline District, 3108 Price Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45205
Family owned and operated with a convenient location in the middle of Cincinnati's Incline District, Veracruz Mexican Grill has long been a local favorite. Looking for a local Mexican restaurant with an extensive menu of vegetarian options? Then Veracruz Mexican Grill is sure to satisfy your craving. Of course, there are plenty of other great options on the menu as well, with all of the meat on the menu marinated in house. Place your order online for takeout/delivery during lunch and dinner hours every day.
611 Main St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
View this post on Instagram
Living in Cincinnati means you're never far from your next great meal, and Mazunte Centro is a perfect place to start when you're in the mood for Mexican food. The menu here is as simple as it is delicious, with tacos, tostadas, tortas, tlayudas, soups, and a tempting selection of sides. There are multiple delivery options so you can use your favorite delivery service, along with convenient carryout options so you can skip the line.
316 Ludlow Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45220
With soups, salads, steak, burritos, appetizers, and so much more, Los Potrillos Mexican Restaurant brings the flavors of Mexico to the heart of Cincinnati. There are unique daily specials available every day of the week, including drink specials on some of your favorite Mexican drinks from the bar. Simply place your order online, schedule your delivery at your convenience, and get ready to enjoy an authentic Mexican meal from the comfort of home.
Which small business will you order from?