Middle Country Public Library Podcast

Latest Episodes:

What's Agentic AI? Plus April New DVDs | Ep. 424 Mar 26, 2026

Show notes

This week, Nicole breaks down agentic AI: what it really means, how open-source tools are enabling personal AI agents to run locally on your computer, and why this next-level technology could soon handle real-life tasks and ease daily mental load—along with important cautions.

Then Sara highlights the newest DVDs arriving in April, including the latest chapter in a hit horror franchise, intense independent thrillers, survival stories, boxing dramas, and more edge-of-your-seat releases.

March into Trivia | Ep. 423 Mar 19, 2026

Show notes

We are celebrating things that happened during the month of March throughout the ages with a collection of fascinating trivia questions. Play along and see how many you get right!

2026 Oscars + Fractured Fairytales | Ep. 422 Mar 12, 2026

Show notes

It's Oscar time! Are you watching this weekend? Sara has a primer of who's who and what's nominated this year. Plus Nicole discusses Fractured Fairytales: the retelling of your old familiar stories that play with plots and characters in a new and alternative way.

The Eyes Have It + Going Analog | Ep. 421 Mar 05, 2026

Show notes

Dive into common eye conditions like astigmatism, myopia, hyperopia, and presbyopia in this eye-opening episode. Learn what your glasses prescription really means, why the eye is so complex, and hear personal stories about vision challenges and fixes.

Then, explore the growing push to go analog: why some parents are ditching school laptops for pen and paper, research on better retention with handwriting, and how Gen Z is rediscovering journals, vinyl, puzzles, and more offline joys.

A fun, informative chat packed with insights on eye health and balancing screens with real-world experiences.

So Much Snow + Library Myths Debunked | Ep. 420 Feb 26, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Sara dives into the science behind snow—from how delicate ice crystals form and grow into intricate snowflakes, to the surprising facts about blizzards, record snowfalls, and why one inch of rain can equal up to 30 inches of fluffy powder. Plus hear her personal tale of getting stranded during a major storm and essential tips for winter driving safety.

Then, Nicole busts some common library myths: discover why modern libraries are far more than quiet book warehouses, who they're really for, the diverse resources beyond traditional reading, and the expertise behind the staff.

A refreshing reminder of what MCPL truly offers!

Library Lovers Month + Kids Nutrition | Ep. 419 Feb 19, 2026

Show notes

This week: Discover an exciting new exhibit opening soon, packed with hands-on activities, seasonal recipes, and creative ways to inspire healthier choices at home—from farm-to-table ideas to growing your own microgreens. Then, celebrate a special month dedicated to something we all cherish: libraries! Explore a curated selection of captivating reads featuring librarians as heroes, detectives, villains, and everything in between.

February DVDs + Too Many Toys? | Ep. 418 Feb 12, 2026

Show notes

This week: Sara dives into exciting upcoming February movie releases hitting our shelves soon. Plus, Nicole presents a thoughtful discussion on simplifying kids' play spaces: why fewer toys can spark deeper creativity, reduce overwhelm, and boost focus for children (and parents too). Discover how rotating items, choosing open-ended playthings, and borrowing from the library's growing toy collection can make a big difference—no need to buy everything new.

Black History Month Trivia | Ep. 417 Feb 05, 2026

Show notes

We dive into February with a trivia episode celebrating Black History Month! Marking a milestone anniversary for this important observance, the team dives into fascinating questions exploring groundbreaking achievements, pioneering figures, and pivotal moments in African American history.

Perfect for anyone looking to learn, reflect, and celebrate during Black History Month (and beyond). How many would you get right? Play along and find out!

Book Awards with a Side of Fries | Ep. 416 Jan 29, 2026

Show notes

This week, we dive into the 2026 Youth Media Award winners from the American Library Association, highlighting standout titles in children's and teen literature perfect for snowy days indoors. The team discusses the Newbery, Caldecott, Printz, and more—plus why these award-winning books are flying off the shelves (and available digitally via Libby and Hoopla).

Then, cozy up for a deep dive into comfort food: the fascinating history, origins, and endless varieties of French fries, from classic straight cuts to curly, waffle, Belgian-style, and creative toppings like poutine or truffle. Learn tips for making them at home with library recommendations for potato-focused cookbooks to try during the next winter storm.

Whether you're a book lover or a fry enthusiast, this episode has something to warm you up!

American Indian Database + What's New with Libby | Ep. 415 Jan 22, 2026

Show notes

Discover two powerful, free resources available through the library that open doors to rich history and endless reading possibilities!

First, Sara dives into a comprehensive digital collection exploring American Indian history—featuring primary sources, landmark treaties, court cases, tribal flags, maps, timelines, videos, slideshows, and in-depth articles organized by tribe, culture area, subject, and era.

Then, Nicole has the latest news on Libby, the go-to app for borrowing e-books, audiobooks, and more. Learn about recent updates to checkout and hold limits, smart etiquette tips to reduce wait times (like returning early or sampling first), the power of the "Notify Me" feature for new titles. Plus details on a brand-new bonus: free access to Ground News right inside the app—a tool that lets you compare coverage across the spectrum, see media bias breakdowns, and read diverse perspectives on the same story without algorithmic bubbles.

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