When people imagine what our library offers, it’s easiest to consider the many shelves of books, the computer stations, and even the dabble box in the basement; that being said, many people are unaware of the many online resources that the library offers as well. Although library patrons may be familiar with a handful of our online resources, such as the MORE catalog or Libby, there are plenty that are offered by LEPMPL (L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library) that get highlighted far less often.

For the second blog post in the series of highlighting online library resources, I would like to take some time to focus on the “Auto Repair” section under the “Explore” tab on the library website’s front page. There are four different resources available on that page, all freely accessible, with the only potential requirement being limited to viewing the resource while at the library.

The first of those services is Auto Repair Source. This digital resource has service and repair information on thousands of domestic and foreign vehicles, including repair procedures, wiring diagrams, recall information, maintenance schedules, specifications, diagnostic trouble codes, labor estimates, parts pricing, and component locations. Although this service is relatively straightforward to use, it also comes with a built-in tutorial to teach you how to use it effectively!

The second of these services, also run through BadgerLink, is Small Engine Repair Reference Center. This is a great service to assist with most smaller engine-run equipment, from boat motors and motorcycles all the way to generators and outdoor power equipment. Although this service does not have a built-in tutorial, it is also fairly user-friendly and quite easy to navigate, even if you aren’t very familiar with using a computer or servicing a small engine.

The third of these services is AllData, though it is worth noting immediately that this resource is only available while you are actively at LEPMPL and using a library device. AllData is very similar to Auto Repair Source, but if you are someone who would use either of these sources frequently, it could be beneficial to try each and see which one you prefer!

The fourth and final resource on the Auto Repair page is not a specific digital resource, but instead takes you to the digital MORE catalog to search for physical repair manuals for a wide array of motored devices. Our library may begin to remove some of these manuals from our collection due to a lack of circulation, but items we don’t have may still be available to request from other libraries in the MORE system.

If you have any questions regarding these resources, feel free to contact the reference services department of LEPMPL in person on the second floor of the library, through email at reference@eauclaire.lib.wi.us, or over the phone at 715-839-5004.