
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.

While crafts have long been popular recreational activities in the United States, 2020 saw a surge in people picking up these relaxing pastimes. CNN reports that crafting provides valuable stress relief and improves cognitive abilities that keep your brain young.
Unleash your inner creativity with projects and supplies from these great craft stores around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
1878 Pearl Rd., Brunswick, OH 44212
When it comes to paper, if you can't find it at Hollo's Papercraft, it doesn't exist. The warehouse-like store has shelf after shelf full of card stock, envelopes, stationery, and blank greeting cards in every color and style imaginable. Design to your heart's content with their amazing variety of pens, markers, stamps, stickers, and other artistic tools. Hours are 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday.
15709 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, OH 44107
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In name and practice, The Quilting Bee honors the craft as a means of both individual expression and social connection. You'll be inspired by the impressive array of fabrics, organized by theme, designer, and color. Be sure to check out "Our Favorite Things," an assortment of supplies and accessories chosen by the shop's staff. Shop online for curbside pickup or delivery. The Quilting Bee is open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday.
20085 Chagrin Blvd., Shaker Heights, OH 44122
After numerous conversations about what they wanted to see in a yarn shop, Pam Berkson and Beth Billings decided the solution was DIY and Around the Table Yarns was born. Customers are encouraged to post photos of their "Fabulous Finished Objects" for a chance to win gift cards. Hours for curbside assistance and pickup only are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday. The online shop is open 24/7 and there are two daily Zoom sessions for shopping, help, and socializing.
743 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
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With so much interaction occurring online, eye-catching letters, invitations, and greeting cards are a fun way to make your communication stand out. On Paper has an extensive range of products, including gifts such as picture frames, ornaments, and guest towels, that can be personalized for added appeal. Brighten up your private writing with one of their stylish journals and notebooks. Embellish them with stickers and stamps to create your own individual design. Visit their new location Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
3607 Interchange Rd., Columbus, OH 43204
True to its name, Crafters Pantry serves as a convenient "storage" for your materials and supplies. Whether crafting is your hobby or business, Crafters Pantry can quickly provide whatever you need, when you need it. The shop buys in bulk from manufacturers and uses their own equipment to create smaller, more affordable pieces than you would be able to get directly. Order online for quick shipping.
4436 Indianola Ave., Columbus, OH 43214
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614 Knit Studio proclaims they are "fluent in fiber," and their goal is to help the local community become equally articulate. Owner Andrea Panzica has a strong background in fashion design and uses her experience to curate a yarn boutique with products from top independent dyers and artisans. The studio also offers a robust schedule of in-person and virtual classes focused on specific projects as well as general topics, such as knitting for beginners and spinning your own yarn. Hours are noon - 6 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Thursday, 1 - 8 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday.
735 Monmouth St., Newport, KY 41071
Frequently named as the best yarn shop in the Cincinnati area, Knit On! lets you shop for yarns from around the world without leaving home. In addition to purchasing from the shop's own inventory, you can place a drop-ship order from one of their suppliers. Knit On! is currently open from 2 - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday for curbside pickup and limited in-store shopping. Call ahead to inquire about individual appointments outside regular store hours.
1334 Main St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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The quirky name isn't the only unique feature of Indigo Hippo. Founded as the brainchild of a group of Cincinnati art students, Indigo Hippo is a nonprofit "creative reuse" shop. Donated materials are sold under a price range, allowing customers to pay what they can so arts and crafts are accessible to everyone, regardless of budget. Shopping is currently by appointment Thursday through Friday from noon - 5 p.m., although walk-ins are admitted as space permits.
1207 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Carolyn Deininger has always loved the promise held by a blank sheet of paper. When Carolyn and husband Mike began receiving requests for more paper goods at their gallery MiCA 12/v, she saw it as the perfect excuse to open Paper Wings. The shop carries a lovingly curated selection of cards, notebooks, and accessories along with works from local artists. Hours are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily except Sunday when doors close at 5 p.m. Their online shop is open 24/7, with free delivery within the Cincinnati 275 area.
Do you have a handmade item in your Ohio home that holds a special memory?

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
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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
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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
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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 levels 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
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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! 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.

When you're looking for special items for your home or a unique gift that didn't come from a big-box store, an antique shop makes the perfect destination. You'll find treasures that have withstood the test of time and add special character to your décor, and besides that, it's just fun to browse in these shops!
Find out why everything old is new again at these nine Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati antique shops:
1489 Grandview Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
If you're looking for antiques, you're sure to find something at Grandview Mercantile, the largest store of its kind in the Midwest. It comprises 22,000 square feet of antiques and home items from 20 dealers and over 500 consignors. You can buy everything from fine art to vintage and estate jewelry at the store, and its inventory is constantly changing. Whether you're looking to decorate your new home or are searching for a one-of-a-kind gift, you're likely to find it at Grandview Mercantile. Hours are noon-5 p.m. Sunday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday, and 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday.
1580 Clara St., Columbus, OH 43211
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Located near the State Fairgrounds, Columbus Architectural Salvage Antiques & Artifacts is a unique 10,000-square-foot store that specializes in fixtures and other items that were salvaged from historic homes and properties. The shop's doors, windows, bathtubs, lighting fixtures, doorknobs, and other items can help make your décor interesting while giving it an authentic touch of the past. In addition to architectural items, the shop also carries vintage signs, artwork, home décor, and more. Hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday by appointment only.
1128-1130 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
Mary Catherine's Antiques encompasses two large storerooms in Columbus' Short North Arts District and has sold special antique and retro pieces since the late 1970s. They're stocked with antique and vintage furniture, artwork, jewelry, advertising signs, jewelry, and much more. Rounding out the inventory are unusual items from the mid to late 20th century, such as a recently sold vintage canoe. Hours are 1-5 p.m. Thursday-Saturday and by appointment.
1410 Central Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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The best-selling items at Wooden Nickel Antiques may come as a slight surprise since they're so unique. The shop specializes in antique saloon back bars – most of which are from the late 1800s to the early 1900s – that they restore, so if you're planning to upgrade your home entertainment area, you might check them out. You'll also be able to find plenty of fireplace mantles, architectural salvage items, stained glass, furniture, and much more as you browse through their ever-changing items. Hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Saturday.
339 Ludlow Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45220
Nestled in the heart of Clifton's Gaslight Business District, Lentz and Company prides itself in making its shop a fun treasure hunt where you're sure to find something you want to take home. If you're looking for furniture, kitchenware, bar accessories, art, or jewelry that's special, you'll be able to find it at this antique shop. Hours are 2-7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 2-8 p.m. Friday, noon-7 p.m. Saturday, and 1-5 p.m., but when the weather's nice and people are out and about in the area, the shop stays open later.
3742 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45226
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Riverside Centre Antique Mall has been described as "a fun, funky 30,000-square-foot treasure trove" by Cincinnati Magazine, which contrasts it with musty old antique malls of the past. The shop sells furniture, salvaged architectural items, jewelry, and more and is a frequent destination for set designers for television shows and movies. The shop has earned a reputation for a family-like atmosphere and serves coffee and cookies to its customers on the weekends. Hours are noon-6 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
7501 Lorain Rd., Cleveland, OH 44102
Sweet Lorain is celebrating its 29th year of helping Northeast Ohio residents find one-of-a-kind treasures. With over 8,000 square feet of merchandise to choose from, the shop truly has something for everyone. Find a vintage toy and relive your childhood, buy some travel-related mementos from Ohio, or spruce up your kitchen with some vintage canisters. Although the shop is packed with goodies, it's well organized into logical sections so you can find the areas you're most interested in. Hours are noon-5 p.m. Sunday and Monday and noon-6 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday.
11917 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
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Located in the historic Little Italy neighborhood of Cleveland, Moonstruck CLE Vintage has a cozy, friendly atmosphere. The shop has a wide variety of vintage wares, including accessories, home décor, clothing, kitchen items, books, jewelry, and more. The search is half of the fun, but chances are good that you'll find something you love enough to buy and give a cherished spot in your home. Hours are 3-8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 1-5 p.m. Sunday by appointment.
11508 Clifton Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44102
Stepping into Flower Child is like stepping into the past since items are displayed as they would have been when they were originally sold. You'll be able to browse in a living room that looks like it's been transported from the '50s and walk over to a plush bedroom from the '60s. The shop has an excellent mid-century collection of items, and the staff is happy to help you find some treasures. Hours are noon-7 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday; noon-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and noon-5 p.m. Sunday.
What are some special treasures you've found at antique shops in Cincinnati, Columbus, and Northeast Ohio?