Library can help you save money with do-it-yourself tutorials

12 November 2009

Erin Tiesman

Musser Public Library has added another tool to the shade-tree mechanics’ toolbox — a mouse.

The Library’s newest online reference tool, the Auto Repair Reference Center, provides helpful information for automotive repair.

“I think it gives people the ability to do some of their auto repair on their own,” Pam Collins, library director, said. “Everything from changing the oil to alignment to replacing a transmission. It depends on your comfort level.”

The program offers information on more than 25,000 domestic and foreign vehicles from 1954 to present. More than 65,000 service bulletins and recalls are available, along with wiring diagrams, labor time guides, and step-by-step photographs.

Collins said video tutorials are also available on the site for further teaching.

“It gives you all of the information you need,” Collins said. “It’s like the Chilton Manuals except its online and has videos, something more than what you get with the manuals.”

The Chilton Manuals are also available for check-out at Musser Public Library, but Collins said there’s no need to worry about an empty shelf with the Auto Reference.

“You can get access pretty much anywhere,” Collins said. “You can plug your computer in your garage and get it there if you want.”

Access to the references are available through Musser Public Library’s homepage at www.musserpubliclibrary.com. Users must have a valid Musser library card to access the reference directories. Library cards are free.

Collins said the purchase of the Auto Reference came as a package deal from the state of Iowa. The other two databases included in the package include the Home Improvement Reference Center, which features do-it-yourself guides for home repair and renovation; and NoveList, a site that connects readers with books of their interest.

Musser Public Library, in conjunction with the release of the new databases, is hosting various programs for money-saving and do-it-yourself techniques.

On Nov. 7, Musser Library held a workshop titled “Outfitting Your Home on a Dime,” featuring tips for redecorating homes with cheap, easy-to-find pieces like chairs and tablecloths.

“It goes along really well with what people in Muscatine are concerned about, which is conserving money and doing things on your own,” Collins said. “We thought they (computer references) might have a lot of use here.”