Last week, one of my best friends (and most trusted reading advisors) posted the book Yesteryear on their Instagram story with the caption “5/5 MUST READ!” When I placed a hold on the book on our NEW PrairieCat Mobile App, I noticed that I was number 75 in line. Bummer! Unfortunately, this means I could have to wait weeks, or maybe even MONTHS to get the book in my hands.
The next day at work, I was shelving some titles, and like a miracle, Yesteryear caught my eye on the Lucky Day display! I was able to check the book out immediately, and cancel the hold I’d placed, moving everyone behind me one place up in line. That’s the magic of a Lucky Day Collection: this group of books is made up of leased copies of high-demand fiction titles that are set aside specifically for walk-in browsing. Instead of joining a long queue, patrons have the chance to check out these items immediately if they happen to be available.
How It Works
- First come, first served – no holds or reservations
- Only available for in-person browsers – the Lucky Day collection is fair game to anyone who walks in with their library card
The goal is simple: get popular materials into more hands, faster!
Why Libraries Love Lucky Day
Lucky Day collections are a win-win for both readers and staff.
For patrons, it means:
- Less waiting
- More spontaneity
- A fun, “treasure hunt” style browsing experience
For libraries, it helps:
- Reduce pressure on long hold lists
- Keep popular materials circulating quickly
- Encourage in-person visits and discovery
In short, it’s a low-effort, high-impact way to improve access to the most in-demand books.
Tips for Getting Lucky
Want to increase your chances of scoring a Lucky Day find?
- Visit often – inventory changes constantly
- Check the display first – it’s located behind the reference desk near the new books. You can tell a book is a Lucky Day title by the orange strip of tape at the top of the spine.
- Be flexible – you might discover something unexpected
- Act fast – if it’s there, it won’t be for long
Stop By and Try Your Luck
Next time you’re at DeKalb Public Library, take a detour to the Lucky Day shelf! You might walk in expecting nothing, then leave with the exact book you’ve been waiting weeks for. Check out the list below to see our most recent additions to the Lucky Day Collection:
If you have questions about the Lucky Day Collection or any other library-related inquiries, please reach out to us at [email protected] or 815-756-9568 ext. 2150. We are happy to help!