Just when we feared that the public library can slip into oblivion as a little more than an artifact in the analog age, #Librarytok Put back the centuries of the Old Democratic Department on the map. Pioneering Chronic online zilnials -With help, humor and affordable actors of their older colleagues-librarytok have given us such gemstones as This meditation on teamwork and This reproduction of “Hot to go”, Making it known that libraries (and all their many, many services) will never go out of style.
Nowadays, with disassembly of state -funded programs and massive Cuts to the Institute of Museum and Library ServicesPublic libraries are in great need of support. But even though you were a library-loving baddy in elementary school (all Hotties was!), It is understandable if you lost contact with the public library system along the line and never knew-about all the different library card benefits that you get for free just by registering. Everyone knows that the library has a trove with free books that are mature for picking, but fewer know about the technology services, career workshops, community courses, museum cards and so many more benefits that have a free library card.
If you want Revive your love for readingneed a quiet place to make Remote workor wants to print more Adult coloring bookYour library card benefits will open more doors than you think. Read on for a summary of just some of the benefits available at your local library.
Library card benefits
Free books
Okay, let’s just get this out of the way: obviously the main appeal books of all libraries are. You do not have to spend a cent on books when you borrow from the library, and if you do not find the book you want on your local branch you can always post a request and the book is sent from another branch to a library near you. Most libraries make it easy to request for books online with their website, but you can always ask a librarian for any personal help.
Job search help
For those at Job Hunt, your local library can be an unlikely resource. The library not only tends to have a quiet, office-like atmosphere, but many branches also offer free services, such as CV and LinkedIn workshops, and free access to online programs that can help you prepare for interviews.
Access to newspapers and magazines
It is difficult to keep up with the news when it also means to keep up with all the different news subscriptions. Fortunately, your local library is home for copies of most large and local magazines that you can review for free. They also have stacks with magazines, from the Atlantic to National Geographic to Bon Appétit, which is available to cardholders.
Access to archives
If you feel nostalgic, you can relive your teenage days with copies of magazines that you used to read during your younger years. But if you are looking for news clips that go back further, the library is an excellent resource – many have extensive archives for physical and microfiche sources that can help get research projects of all kinds to life.
Access to DVD discs, CDs and more
Blockbuster may be long dead but if you have recently exhausted Netflix catalog And you need some new inspiration, check out your local library’s collection of DVDs, CDs, vinyl records and more depending on your place. (Your librarian will have a good sense of what is available and what they may need to special order for you.)
E access
It’s not just physical books that you find at the library! If e -books are your preferred form of absorbing the written word, your library card will get you free access to a handful of different audiobook services.
Notes
Musicians love their local libraries. You can scan the notes from your favorite songs for free and stick to copies forever without spending a penny.
Exhibit your art
Many libraries show work from local artists. If you want to get exposure, the walls of your public library are a good place to start building society’s awareness of your work. Come into contact with the librarians to discuss how they compile their walls.
Free printing and scanning services
Scan pages from books, notes, receipts, whatever you need. Many library cards have a (free) prepaid balance to use printers and scanners. If you are a ritual printer and spend all your free money the prices of future printing jobs are still quite low and should not break the bank.
Entertainment for children
Want hours with entertainment for your child but not just want Stick them in front of an iPad screen? It is public library time. Not only will it help your child develop a healthy love for books at a young age, there are also lots of children’s programming, children’s sections and sometimes even playing spaces for small ones.
Internet and computer access
Free WiFi and computer access are major draws to the library. (Shocker.) Whether you need to borrow a laptop or desktop computer, or if you just want a quiet, safe space to get some work on your own machine, the public library is a good alternative.
Free access to websites or databases with paywalls
With a library card you can often access paid databases and websites with paywalls for free, such as ancestry.com, Morningstar, Journal and more.
Museum passes
Some libraries offer discounts or free passes to cultural institutions such as art museums and aquariums. These must usually be reserved well in advance, but it is always worth checking in with your librarians about what is available and when.
Legal help
Are you curious about the legality of any action taken by your landlord or employer? You can find the city, the state and federal codes in full at the library. Personnel librarians are well -warrated on how you can help if you feel stuck.
Funny fun
Craft time Is a sacred time for many, and many libraries are hosted for craft clubs that you can join. Also check out the DIY section for books that can help you choose your next major craft project.
Emma Glassman-Hughes (She/her) is an associated editor at PS Balance. During her seven years as a reporter, her beats have extended over the lifestyle spectrum; She has covered art and culture for Boston Globe, sex and relationships for cosmopolitan and food, climate and agriculture for ambrook research.
