Books and Collections
Collections at PWPL
The Peter White Public Library maintains a diverse collection of materials for all ages and interests. Our Library catalog is the best way to see if items you are interested in are a part of our collection. The Library is always accepting requests for purchase from patrons. Interested in learning more about our collections development policy? Visit our Policies page and view Circulation Policies.
Top Floor Collections:
- Adult Non-Fiction
- Bennett Maritime Collection
- Genealogy and Local History Collections
- George Shiras III Collection (historic collection)
- McClintock Submarine Collection
- Michigan History
- Periodical Back issues
- Reference Materials
Main Floor Collections:
- Adult Fiction, Graphic Novels, Mystery, Science Fiction/Fantasy, Western
- AV: Blu-rays, DVD's, Music CDs, Audiobooks
- Book Group Kits
- Current Periodicals
- Dandelion Cottage
- Large Print
- Library of Things
- Queen City Seed Library
- Teen Fiction, Non-Fiction, Graphic Novels
- Sister Cities Collection
Lower Floor Collections (Youth Services):
- Board Books
- Picture Books and Easy Readers
- Puppets, Games, Puzzles
- Fiction and Non-fiction titles for youth
- Tonieboxes & Tonies
- Youth Kits
Interlibrary Loan
Interlibrary Loan gives patrons access to materials not owned by Peter White Public Library, usually at no charge. There are three different ways to borrow materials from other libraires:
- Patron Initiated Interloans (PII) are items requested from other northern Michigan libraries. PII requests can be placed from our online catalog. Choose “Resource Sharing Libraries” from the first drop-down menu to search for items available at these libraries.
- MeLCat requests items from other libraries within the entire state of Michigan. MelCat is operated through the Library of Michigan.
- WorldCat is a service offered for items not available through PII or MelCat. These nationwide and worldwide requests are utilized for harder to find items. Patrons need to contact the Reference Desk, 906-226-4311, refdesk@pwpl.info, directly for help using this service.
Books by Mail
If limited mobility or a disability prevents you from coming to the building, Peter White Public Library offers a Books by Mail program. Books by Mail is limited to books and audiobooks in the Peter White Public Library collection (no interlibrary loans). Items are mailed directly to the patron’s home in a special mailing pouch at no cost. Patrons are responsible for returning items to one of our drop boxes or by mail (return postage is the patron’s expense). Remote drops are located at the Chocolay Township Hall, Sands Township Hall, Skandia Township Hall, West Branch Township Hall, and Westwood Mall.
Who is eligible for Books by Mail?
Patrons of any age who have a PWPL library card and are unable to visit the library due to a physical or medical disability qualify. Caregivers of those with a physical or medical disability also qualify.
How do I register for Books by Mail?
Register by filling out the form or call Melissa Alan at (906)228-9510. You will receive instructions through e-mail or postal mail once you are registered.
Michigan Activity Pass
The Michigan Activity Pass (MAP) is a program that allows Michigan residents to access free or discounted admission to various cultural institutions and attractions across the state.
Michigan residents can use their library cards to obtain passes to participating museums, historic sites, cultural attractions, state parks, and more. These passes can be reserved online. Each pass typically grants free or discounted admission for a certain number of people, often limited to immediate family members.
Participating organizations may vary over time, so it's advisable to check the official Michigan Activity Pass website or inquire with local libraries for the most up-to-date information on available passes and participating attractions.
