We all know keeping ourselves occupied in downtime is important. Not only does it give us something to do, but it can also help keep mental health problems, like depression, at bay. With so many people needing to stick to a budget these days, too, libraries are the perfect haven for entertainment on a dime.
Just a few stats to get us started.
Did you know there are more public libraries in the United States than McDonald’s locations? I didn’t either, but with nearly 17,000 branches nationwide, there are a few thousand more libraries than there are McDonald’s.
Over half the American population has a library card, and it’s said that the average American borrows eight books a year. Even though budgets have recently been cut, we hope that doesn’t end this wonderful institution. Long live the public library!
“Why are libraries so important? They’re dated and going out of fashion anyway.”
This opinion is something that many folks have, but it couldn’t be further from the truth. Libraries are amazing at keeping up with the times and are always growing and evolving.
Times are tight and a lot of folks have been cutting expense after expense. But it’s hard to get by without the internet these days. Libraries to the rescue! Almost 90% of public libraries offer free internet access to guests and have resources to help people with finding jobs. Your local library may offer everything from resume building to interview tips and more.
Libraries are also a great place for activities and programs for all ages, but I’ll get more into that later.
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Borrowing physical books and more
When you think of a library, the first thing that comes to mind is books, right? Well, me too, and there’s a good reason for that. It is what a library is known for and what it began with, right?
But, the catalog doesn’t stop at just books. Many libraries also carry magazines, newspapers, DVDs, CDs, audio books on CDs – and some have even started carrying video games! They truly do know how to keep up.
Virtual books and audiobooks
While I do love a good book (I am an avid reader after all), I sometimes struggle to find time to actually go to the library. That’s where Overdrive comes in! Overdrive is a phenomenal website and app for smartphones and tablets. I found out about Overdrive back when I was in college, and it has been my best friend ever since.
Overdrive is basically a digital library connected to public libraries. All you need is a library card, and with a large number of public libraries in Canada and the USA connected, you can log in and start borrowing eBooks and audiobooks right to your phone or computer.
It is incredibly easy to use and works just like a library. Each book can only be checked out to one person at a time, and after the set time (usually three weeks), it is automatically returned, so you don’t even have to worry about late fees. However, it is totally possible to renew them for longer, as well as putting yourself in line for a book that’s already checked out.
Start children out loving books.
Going to the library used to be my favorite outing. I could browse the books and take home any book I wanted. Growing up without a lot of money, that was one place we could go and never leave without something wonderful to take home.
Taking children to the library and allowing them to choose books is a great way to get them started with reading and loving books. Later, you can help them look up books that relate to their special interests.
And of course, never forget that the library often has programs for kids year-round. Some are educational, and some are just plain fun. But they all achieve the same goal: teaching the next generation that libraries are there for all of us.
Internet and computers
Like I said previously, a majority of public libraries now offer free internet, and many even have computers you can use to browse the internet, check emails, pay bills, and anything you feel like using it for. The only cost you may incur is if you need to print something, and even that is cheaper at the library than other places. With this capability, families with tight budgets can access to things they may not have had otherwise.
I remember I spent one summer at the library for hours a day, often working on my online course and some projects. That’s hours of free internet and office space I received – and you can too – that only requires walking through a front door to access.
Clubs, events, and activities
Now, some of this will vary, but most, if not all, public libraries offer programs for people of all ages. Here are just some of the activities your local libraries might be offering;
- Kids arts and crafts programs
- 3D printing
- Programs to help find work
- Book clubs (for all ages!)
- Lego or robot building
- Events with authors (the first time I met my favorite author was at a public library!)
- Writing classes
- Classes or tutoring to help with technology
- Aid with filing taxes
And there are many other programs geared towards everyone from toddlers to seniors.
A safe place
And last but certainly not least, public libraries are a safe place. Over the years, libraries have striven to better their communities and be a safe haven for all. When you walk through those doors, it doesn’t matter the color of your skin, your education level, or your financial standing.
A library will take you where you are at, help you where they can, and give you a peaceful environment where you don’t have to worry about judgment or bills you can’t afford.
There are endless possibilities
With libraries, there are a plethora of options for activities and things to do. They are absolutely fantastic and make an amazing resource and source of entertainment, especially if you’re on a budget. People may downplay libraries, but in my mind, there is nothing better than one of these beauties supporting their local community. Not sure where your closest library is? Go here to find it now!
Do you have a library card? What’s your favorite part about your local library? How do you use the library to save money? Share your thoughts in the comments.
About Chloe Morgan
Chloe Morgan grew up living with a tight budget. In her late teens and early 20s, all the lessons she’d learned started to slip, as it does for many college-age students on their own for the first time and with their first credit card. As she’s gotten older, she’s started to deal with the repercussions and has taken on a frugal way of living, keeping her costs low, as she pays off debt and saves for her future. Chloe lives in British Columbia, Canada, with her partner and their two cats.
