Dearborn residents will soon be able to use Dearborn Heights’ libraries as part of a year-long pilot reciprocal borrowing program that begins March 1.

The reciprocal borrowing agreement will give Dearborn residents access to Dearborn Heights’ John F. Kennedy and Caroline Kennedy libraries and Dearborn Heights residents will have access to the Henry Ford Centennial Library, as well as the Snow, Bryant and Esper branch libraries.

It isn’t clear yet what, if any, type of financial savings might be realized by each city through such a program but residents will certainly benefit with greater choice.

The new system will give Dearborn residents access to 146,000 volumes from Dearborn Heights Public Library, and limited access to their network shared system, which contains even more resources.

It will also allow residents a greater geographic proximity to libraries, and access to 70 more public computers.

Extended library access also means additional library hours on nights and weekends, as well as in the summer. Dearborn residents will also be able to participate in library programs at both Dearborn Heights libraries.

Dearborn Heights residents will reap many rewards similar to those listed above as they will have access to all libraries in the Dearborn Public Library system. Benefits to Dearborn Heights residents include access to more than 290,000 items, including a large DVD collection and an International Cinema Collection, as well as 104 public computers with internet access and standard software programs. In addition, Dearborn Public offers a wide variety of online databases that include Mango Languages, Ancestry Library Edition, AllDataPro Automotive Repair and Biography Resource Center as well as access to downloadable audio books and e-books.

The reciprocal exchange applies to residents, property owners, or taxpayers in the City of Dearborn or the City of Dearborn Heights.