Your Local Library is not Just a Place to Borrow Books But So Much More
This post is all about public libraries and why you should always have a library card.
Free Library Cards
Ah, the library card. This little piece of plastic is like a key to your own personal treasure trove of books, movies, music, and more. Local public library cards are zero-cost and easy to obtain.
The application process is typically straightforward, but you must check your library requirements. Usually, all you need is a valid photo ID and a document that shows your current address.
If you renew your library card every year, you will have access to physical locations, all library systems, the online catalog, and all its resources.
A Few Points About Library Cards
- Your free card is not considered a permanent library card.
- There is no annual fee for a public library card.
- You may be able to apply online for a free library card (check your local requirements). This convenience is currently offered by the Queens Public Library in New York.
- In some instances, you can renew your library card online.
- Report lost library cards immediately to prevent someone from unlawfully using your credentials to gain access.
- Non-residents may receive a temporary card number to place holds or use library collections.
Access to a Limitless Array of Books, Movies, and Music Without Having to Spend Your Hard-Earned Cash
And you thought that the library was only for book lovers.
It’s true; not only can you borrow books with a library card, but you also have access to an endless supply of entertainment (books, music, and much, much more) without spending a dime (think of all the money you’ll save).
So, say goodbye to emptying your wallet at the nearest book, music store, or newsstand, and say hello to the magical kingdom of the library.
The Library is a Great Study or Research Venue
Listen, I know what you’re thinking. Libraries? Boring, right? Wrong.
The library is where all the action is. For instance, the Houston Public Library has excellent resources if you like researching history and live in Texas. Check out their website here: Houston Public Library.
Perhaps you need to study for that big exam? Your library’s got your back. Doing research for a project? Come explore the stacks. You can reserve space to study at their facilities or borrow materials to take home.
And let’s remember the endless supply of free Wi-Fi. Who needs coffee shops when you’ve got the library?
Plus, you never know who you’ll bump into. Maybe you’ll finally meet your book club soulmate or strike up a conversation with the elusive quiet guy who’s always in the corner.
So, take advantage of the library next time you’re looking for a spot to settle down and get some work done. You might just be pleasantly surprised.
Did You Know That Libraries Have Magazines and Newspapers?
Are you tired of paying for magazine or newspaper subscriptions you often don’t have time to read? Head to the nearest branch of your public library to read only the issues that interest you for free.
Libraries have the current monthly issue of many magazines and the latest editions of major newspapers around the globe.
Additionally, you can often access these issues and editions digitally without leaving the comfort of your cozy reading chair.
Love Audiobooks and eBooks? You are in Luck! Library Cards Can Get You eBooks and Audiobooks
In addition to physical books, many libraries also offer eBooks and audiobooks that you can borrow and download to your electronic device with your free library card.
This is an excellent option if you prefer to read (or listen to) books electronically. You don’t even have to visit the library in person; download the library’s digital platform to your Kindle or other electronic reading devices, enter your library card online, and gain immediate access to all of your favorites right from the comfort of your home.
Also, because loans are delivered and returned online, there are no overdue fines associated with digital services.
Use Your Free Library Card for Interlibrary Loan Programs
Tired of feeling like you’ve read every book in your local library? Well, fear not, my book-loving friend! Interlibrary loan programs are like Tinder for book borrowers. You swipe right on the book you want to read; enter your library card online; before you know it, it’s yours.
Okay, so maybe it’s not quite that easy, but you get the idea. With interlibrary loan programs, you can access a whole new world of literary adventures. With the interlibrary loan program, you can borrow from other libraries in the area.
All you have to do is request a book from the online database, which is then sent to your library, ready for you to pick up. Easy!
You may discover your new favorite author without leaving your neighborhood. So go ahead, get swiping, and expand your reading horizons.
Activities for Children, Teens, and Adults, such as Chess Clubs or Storytime
Looking for a great way to keep your mind sharp and your friends close?
Look no further than the chess club at your nearest public library branch! Whether you’re a grandmaster in training or just starting out, a good game of chess can keep you entertained for hours. And don’t worry if you don’t have a board or pieces – most libraries will have everything you need.
In addition, libraries often have other board or card games you can play or check out.
For those little ones, why not try Storytime? You might not think you’re in the mood for a cute bedtime story, but trust me, there’s nothing quite like getting cozy with a good book and a bunch of strangers. Plus, you and your child might even learn something new!
And let’s not forget the teens – it’s never too late to try something new.
So why not give these activities a shot?
You May Find Arts and Crafts Sessions that are Often Free or Low-Cost
Who says creativity has to break the bank? Your local library is a hidden gem for arts and crafts sessions that are often free or low-cost.
From ceramics to knitting, there’s a project for every Picasso in the making. Not to mention, you’ll have the satisfaction of saying, “Oh, this masterpiece? I made it at the library.”
Plus, think of all the money you’ll save on therapy bills – crafting is a form of self-care, after all. So, grab your glue gun and head to your local library for affordable artistic therapy.
You may even meet your new BFF over a shared love of macrame.
Some Libraries Even Check Out Tools or Musical Instruments With the Simple Swipe of Your Trusty Library Card
As you have probably gathered by now, libraries are more than just repositories for dusty books that no one wants to read.
Some public libraries, such as the Brooklyn Public Library, are taking lending to a new level by offering tools and musical instruments for checkout. Want to check out their website, click Brooklyn Public Library.
Need a lawnmower for the weekend? No problem, head to your local library!
Want to test out your skills on the electric guitar? Check one out from the library before investing in your own.
It’s a brilliant idea and makes us wonder, what’s next? Maybe we’ll see libraries offering surfboards or cooking equipment in the future.
The possibilities are endless, but for now, I’m excited to know that if I need a tool that I will only use maybe once or want to explore any hidden musical talent that I might want to develop, there is a possibility that I can borrow the tool or instrument from my local public library. (Note: not all libraries have tools or instruments to lend, you will have to check to see if your local library has these options.)
Public Computers are Often Available at the Library if You Need One
Libraries now offer more than just a peace-filled room of books – they also provide the latest in machine-based learning!
Libraries are the perfect place to test out that new tech project. Not only do they have reliable internet access, but the computers are often better maintained than those personal computers at home. And when I say “maintained,” I mean there’s not the half-empty cup of hot chocolate or soda (in my case) on it and no suspicious-looking cable hanging off the side.
So visit your local library – it’ll be fun and more productive than you expect!
Some Libraries Have Wi-Fi Devices that You can Check Out for Use at Home
Yep, you read that right. Some libraries check out Wi-Fi services that you can use for a specific amount of time away from the library (your home, school, or business).
Most libraries also offer free Wi-Fi while using their facilities. (You may be required to have a library card for these services.) This is very convenient if you are in desperate need of Wi-Fi.
Who knew the humble library with its free little plastic card could double up as your personal hotspot?
So, whether you need to send an email or binge-watch that latest show, head to your nearest library and soak up their free Wi-Fi like a sponge.
It’s a win-win situation; you get to stay connected to the world while enriching your mind with knowledge.
Now, that’s multitasking at its finest!
Your Library Card can Get You Special Discounts on Museum Admissions, Concert Tickets, and Other Entertainment Events
Being a library card holder is like having a secret VIP pass to the most exciting events in town.
Not only do you have access to boundless knowledge and countless treasures within the library’s walls, but you also get the perk of getting discounted admission to concerts, museums, and other entertainment events.
So while others are shelling out the big bucks for their entertainment, you, my friend, can sit back and revel in the fact that you got a steal of a deal thanks to your trusty library card.
The New York Public Library currently offers its cardholders a Culture Pass. Visit their website here to learn more.
To access these benefits check out your library’s event calendar page and other online resources, or ask the librarian about other rewards of having a free library card.
Who knew being book-smart could also make you street-smart in the entertainment world?
Libraries Offer Free Job Search and Career Resources
Let’s face it, finding a career can sometimes feel like a full-time job. But fear not, my unemployed comrades, because some municipal libraries are here to help!
That’s right; you can use your library card to nab a good book, use the library’s online databases and digital resources for job and career searches, and apply online.
Who needs LinkedIn Premium when you can just hit up your local library?
Plus, libraries are full of all sorts of exciting characters who can offer up some unconventional job-hunting advice. So, give those job search engines a break and head to your nearest library.
And you never know; the library might help you find that elusive dream career you have been searching for.
Need Tax Help – Use your Library Card! Some Public Libraries Even Offer FREE Tax help!
Are you ready to tackle your taxes but feeling overwhelmed?
Free tax help is here to save the day! Yes, you read that right – FREE.
That’s like finding some money you didn’t know you had. There are many options, from free volunteer programs at specified library branches to online resources you can check out with your library card.
So, sit back, relax, and let someone else do the heavy lifting regarding your taxes. Using your library card for free tax advice might leave you with enough money to treat yourself to some much-deserved ice cream (or maybe even a whole sundae)!
Some Participating Libraries Offer Free Citizenship and ESL Classes!
Did you hear the news? Some libraries are now offering something even better than just checking out books: free citizenship and ESL classes!
You can improve your language skills and learn what it takes to become a citizen. Who knew libraries could be so multi-talented? Move over Google Translate; it’s time to get some hands-on learning.
Plus, you never know who you might meet in these classes. You may find a fellow bookworm who also dreams of becoming a citizen. Or you’ll finally figure out what that obscure library jargon on your overdue fee statement actually means.
Either way, one thing’s certain: these libraries are committed to helping their communities thrive.
To Summarize
- A library card gives you access to books, eBooks, audiobooks, magazines, newspapers, and more without the financial cost.
- Libraries offer board games and hold activities such as chess clubs and storytime for children and adults alike.
- You can borrow tools or musical instruments from some libraries and even access various arts & crafts sessions for free or low-cost.
- Public computers are available in libraries with reliable internet access, and special Wi-Fi devices are often available to check out for at-home use.
- Libraries also offer many helpful services, such as job search resources, free tax help, and citizenship/ESL classes.
- Finally, free library cards can be used to get discounts on museums & entertainment events.
Some More Thoughts
In this age of unlimited online content, leaving the local library in the dust can be tempting. But as I’ve demonstrated, there is much more to libraries than just books – they are incredible hubs for learning and inspiration.
After all, who wouldn’t want free tax advice or tips on landing their dream job? Visiting your local library today can open up a treasure trove of opportunities! So step off the web and discover something you didn’t even know existed – because once you do, you’ll be amazed at how many resources are only a few steps away. Do you know what they say? Knowledge is power – and the library is here to help us find it.
Go grab your family or BFF and visit your local library today, get your free library cards, and see what hidden gems await!
Need help finding a library near you visit libraries.org
Don’t Know Where to Start
So have I overwhelmed you with information?
I hope not.
I hope I have inspired you to go check out your local public library. They have programs for residents and non-residents alike. And if you want to start with one book, read this post for a few of my suggestions.
Happy Reading
xooxoo
