EATON — Genealogists and history lovers now have more time to research. The Preble County Room is extending hours starting in February.

“We’re excited to expand our hours to meet the needs of our patrons better,” said Angie Getter, Branch Manager of the Preble County Room. “Longer hours mean more people can utilize our resources, including genealogy research assistance and digitization services.”

The new hours for the Preble County Room are as follows: Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Tuesday: 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and Saturdays by appointment only in three-hour increments. Appointments must be requested by Wednesday. Patrons interested in a Saturday appointment may call 937-456-4970.

Along with extended hours, the Preble County Room will offer more learning opportunities for the community, including a History Hunters Group, monthly crafts, and monthly general history or genealogy programs.

“We are excited to introduce our new History Hunters Group. Our goal is to discuss Preble County’s history, share memories, and discover new information about our county. We’ve seen how successful the Talk of the Town program has gone over at our West Elkton Branch, and we wanted to replicate that same spirit, but county-wide,” explained Getter. “We encourage those interested in history or have things about the county that they would be willing to share to please join us.”

The History Hunters Group will meet the first Tuesday of each month, unless there is a holiday, at 6 p.m. in the Preble County Room.