Taking Advantage of Your Local Library

When people think of the library, they most likely think of a place to check out books and possibly use a computer, but libraries today have so much more to offer. Whether you want to take a class, download e-books or even try virtual reality, the library has something for you! Every library is different, but here are a few ideas to look into if you want to get the most out of yours.

Check out virtual books I gotta admit, I'm a paper-book girly, but a lot of my friends and family prefer to read on their e-readers or tablets. The good news is in addition to paper books you can also check out e-books from your library. Check out your Library's website, or ask a Librarian how to access their online catalog.

Download other media

Did you know that with a lot of libraries you can download things besides virtual books? You can download movies, music and audiobooks. Check out your library's website to see what's available.

Take classes

Sewing classes, tech classes, writing classes, are all classes you might find at your local library. This is great if you like to learn in a classroom setting, want to meet people with similar interests,or want to start developing a new skill, and bonus, it’s a free class!

Get free or discounted books

Sometimes libraries also have books for sale, with a very hefty discount, or, in my experience, books for free. Keep your eyes open!

Utilize the equipment

When you think of equipment at the library you probably think of computers, a scanner, printer, copier, but a lot of libraries have other equipment available for public use. Some libraries have laminators, cameras, Cricuts, 3d printers, sewing machines, and possibly more depending on your library.

Utilize professional help

Sometimes libraries will have professionals available on certain days to help people with things like taxes, tech, gardening queries, genealogy and more. You can check your library’s website, or flyer to see any dates this might occur.

Look for book clubs or writing clubs

If you’re looking for a book cub, discussion group, or writing group, a great place to look is the library. There might even be groups that meet and have discussions over zoom if that’s something you’re interested in. You can check your library’s bulletin, flyers, or website to see when they host group discussions.

Arts and craft projects

If you're feeling crafty, want to learn something new, meet people with common interests, or you want something different to do for an afternoon, you can sign up for a class to make an art project. In the monthly newsletter, you’ll likely find certain days in the month where an instructor comes to show you how to create a painting on a canvas, make a birdhouse, or decorate a hanging lantern. Then, not only did you make something, but you got a free craft to show off. It's like color me mine but without the cost!

Try out virtual reality

If you’ve ever wanted to try out virtual reality goggles, there’s a chance you can at your library. It’s quite new, mine only announced they were getting it a few months ago, but it’s great that it will soon be accessible to anyone who wants to try. Keep an eye out on the libraries in your area if you want to check it out.

Activities for kids

The library is a great place for kids to do fun activities. Most libraries have designated kid areas, but they also offer classes and activities for kids as well. There are activities for all age groups, like mommy and me type classes for tiny tots or Smashbros tournaments for older kids and teens. Check your library's newsletter to see regularly scheduled activities as well as fun, new, events.