Most people still see public libraries solely as places to check out books. If they use it at all, it’s for that reason, and often only for their children. Libraries do still offer those services, but if you haven’t looked to see what your local library offers lately, you should do so. You can get a library card for free; usually all you need is an ID showing a local address, possibly a proof of residency. It takes under five minutes, and here are some of the offerings your local library might offer.
Books/Magazines
Let’s start with the obvious, as libraries still have books and magazines for people to read. If you have particular authors or subjects you like to read, talk to a librarian, as they can often recommend others you might be interested in. Many libraries often have free subscriptions to national magazines or newspapers you can subscribe to, usually virtually, so you can access them at home. Almost every library has audiobooks you can access through your phone and/or computer, helping you avoid paying to listen to books. Also, many libraries are a part of the interlibrary loan network, where they can request books from libraries in other cities and states. Thus, if the library doesn’t have something you’re looking for, you should ask, as they might be able to get it for you another way. If not, they’re often willing to order it and add it to their collection, as many libraries take suggestions for what they order.
Books/Magazines
Let’s start with the obvious, as libraries still have books and magazines for people to read. If you have particular authors or subjects you like to read, talk to a librarian, as they can often recommend others you might be interested in. Many libraries often have free subscriptions to national magazines or newspapers you can subscribe to, usually virtually, so you can access them at home. Almost every library has audiobooks you can access through your phone and/or computer, helping you avoid paying to listen to books. Also, many libraries are a part of the interlibrary loan network, where they can request books from libraries in other cities and states. Thus, if the library doesn’t have something you’re looking for, you should ask, as they might be able to get it for you another way. If not, they’re often willing to order it and add it to their collection, as many libraries take suggestions for what they order.
Children’s/Teens Offerings
One of the best ways people know about their public library is through what they offer for kids. Libraries often advertise summer reading programs or weekly story time for younger children, and they occasionally bring in authors to read/talk to children. However, most libraries go well beyond those programs. Some libraries have a toy lending library, where parents can check out toys their children would enjoy for a few weeks, at best, helping avoid costly purchases that will sit in closets after the initial thrill wears off. If they don’t offer a complete toy library, they often check out games for children to play, or have Legos available. Many libraries show movies aimed at children and families, especially in the summer. Depending on your location, there may also be programs tied to state initiatives. In Tennessee, for example, our libraries work with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to provide free books for children from birth until they begin school. If your library doesn’t offer a service for children you think they should, talk to a librarian, as they’re always looking for good ideas.
One of the best ways people know about their public library is through what they offer for kids. Libraries often advertise summer reading programs or weekly story time for younger children, and they occasionally bring in authors to read/talk to children. However, most libraries go well beyond those programs. Some libraries have a toy lending library, where parents can check out toys their children would enjoy for a few weeks, at best, helping avoid costly purchases that will sit in closets after the initial thrill wears off. If they don’t offer a complete toy library, they often check out games for children to play, or have Legos available. Many libraries show movies aimed at children and families, especially in the summer. Depending on your location, there may also be programs tied to state initiatives. In Tennessee, for example, our libraries work with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to provide free books for children from birth until they begin school. If your library doesn’t offer a service for children you think they should, talk to a librarian, as they’re always looking for good ideas.