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Why Would I Need a Library Card?
I am always shocked when I come across someone who does not have a library card? What? Why wouldn’t you have one? It’s free.
Not only is it free but the amazing things it can do… I mean, you’re missing out!
People will say, “Well, I don’t really need one.” WHAT?!?! Ok, let me break down to you exactly WHY you DO need one. I don’t care if you are not a big reader. Go to your local library, and get yourself a card.
Having a Library Card Saves You Money!
This reason is pretty all-encompassing. Most of the reasons given in this article are a way to save you money!
The library is there to be used. Your taxes help fund it, you might as well enjoy the many benefits! The amazing thing about the library is that the whole purpose of it is to serve the community.
When I was a student in college, I often went to the library near campus to work on homework. At first, I felt a little weird that I was just there to use up space and their WiFi. But here’s the thing… THAT’S THE WHOLE POINT OF THE LIBRARY! That’s what it’s there for, guys.
Its sole purpose is to serve YOU! Need WiFi? Here you go! Need a place to meet with your class group to work on your project? Go for it! Oh, you need to scan this document so you can email it to your boss/professor/school’s teacher/etc? You get the idea.
You do not have to feel guilty using the resources that are provided. That’s the point! Again, if you pay taxes, then really, they are there for you.
The Librarians are Awesome!
The librarians WANT to help you! That’s why they became librarians.
Every library I’ve ever been a part of, the librarians are just amazing human beings whose ultimate goal is to get every person on Earth to love books as much as they do.
You can go to a librarian and say, “I am really interested in learning about ghosts and paranormal activity.” Without a doubt, they will take you straight to the section, point out some books that they believe will be most helpful for you, chat you up about what you want to learn and what sparked this interest, and they will be totally into it. Then, they will ask if you need to use a laptop or computer to continue your research or show you some additional multimedia resources like documentaries or magazines.
Basically, what I’m trying to tell you is librarians are freaking awesome.
Free WiFi and Computer use
As mentioned before, libraries offer WiFi and the use of their technology. Many have laptops that you can check out and use in the building as well as scanners.
Many people think, “why would I go to the library? I don’t read!” I hope that’s not you… That makes me sad. However, even if that is you, the library’s resources are not limited to just books. In fact, I feel that comparatively, that’s a small portion of all that they offer.
I live in Kansas City, and the libraries are a wonderful resource for SO many who need to use the technology. Filling out job applications, studying for a class, even checking their email… They rely on the library to do these things that are often taken for granted.
When you don’t have a computer or you can’t afford to pay for the internet in your home, a whole world is basically kept from you! The library tries to give everyone the opportunity to have access to what they need.
Family Fun
It can seem like you spend a lot of money finding fun things to do with your kids. The library on its own is already a pretty great way to spend time as a family. We go at least once a week (often 2 or 3 times). However, the library also offers a lot of ways for families to have fun together! And best of all, it’s FREE (remember, the whole point of the library?)
Our library has read-aloud time every week for different age groups. These are the same time each week. Chances are, your library does something similar!
Most libraries also offer a family movie night. They take newly released movies (or sometimes oldies) and show them on the big screen for families to come enjoy.
Our library does this for newer movies as well as older movies on different days of the week.
Not all libraries offer the same things, but the children’s read-aloud and movie nights are pretty common. Check out what your library offers for family fun!
Our library even has a “silent disco night” once a week for all ages. For those of you that don’t know what that is, everyone wears headphones so they can rock out to whatever music they love, and every one parties on the dance floor!
Learning Resources Galore
Libraries are the perfect place for learning resources for both kids and adults. Libraries offer free classes, databases for research, language programs, kids’ online resources and more!
Classes
If you are a lifelong learner (like I am) go to your library’s website and check out the classes offered. Some libraries offer more than others but some possibilities are technology, coding, and ESL classes.
The classes are free and libraries are always trying to partner with experts to provide quality learning for their community.
Technology Help
A great learning resource/class that your library probably provides is technology help! My library has coding classes as well as a specific time throughout the week that you can just show up with your technology questions.
This can range from learning how to download apps on your phone to how to make a spreadsheet on excel! And as mentioned before, if it’s a computer skill you want to learn, you can even use their computers!
Tax Help
Taxes can be pretty intimidating (at least in America). Many libraries have professionals come and offer tax help for their cardholders.
Language Learning
Language learning programs can be expensive! Have you checked out Rosetta Stone? So much money!
The great news is that your library card can often give you access to online language programs. My library provides “Pronunciator” that has tons of language options (even Lao!) for free using your library card number. My library where I used to live has a program called “Mango” and even “Rosetta Stone” access (that’s right, for free…)
These programs normally cost money, however your library card gives you free access.
Each library is different, so go check out what is available for you!
Learning Resources for Kids
The amount of resources for kids through the library is just incredible! Both online and in the library.
Ebooks
While exploring digital resources I found so many options for ebooks. They have Tumblebooks, Bookflix, Hoopla, and more.
You can have access to hundreds of children’s picture ebooks! Most of these resources have audio that goes along with the books to read to your child.
Bookflix has an ebook paired with a cute video of the same topic along with activities to do with your child for enrichment after reading!
Tutoring and Learning Sites
Your library very likely has a tutoring resource for all grade levels. They have live tutors that you can connect with for homework help.
Many libraries also have access to different learning sites that offer students extra practice in skills that they are working on in school.
Clubs and Social Outlets
Now that I’m a stay-at-home parent, I don’t get to interact with other humans as much as I am accustomed. The library is a great place to look for clubs and events to get out and interact with humans.
Libraries are, of course, the natural habitat for book clubs but many have other opportunities to get to know other people with a shared interest. They have clubs and groups for kids, teens, and adults!
Some common groups at the library include:
Teen Tabletop gaming club
Teen Gaming Club (video games)
Parent and kids learning group
Preschooler Storytime
After-school snack/meal for school-aged kids (ours has this EVERY school day, and YES, we use it!)
Crafting groups-knitting, crochet, painting, etc.
Streaming Services and Ebooks
Yes, that’s right. You can stream movies, music, and audiobooks from the library. You can also check out ebooks for your Kindle, Nook, phone, or computer.
Our library calls the digital resources they offer their “digital branch.” With services like Kanopy, Hoopla, Axis360, and Freegal there are many streaming options using your library card! We can check out movies and cast it to our TV or check out our favorite Disney soundtracks for our kitchen dance party!
I love to check out audiobooks and ebooks. Streaming audiobooks is much easier than checking it out at the library because I don’t have to use a CD player (I just play it on my phone) and I don’t have to remember to return it!
Ebooks are also convenient because I can load them onto my e-reader (or phone) and read from anywhere, and they return automatically when they are due!
Get a Library Card!
So there you have it! My reasons why a library card is a MUST! If you have a library card, but have only been using it for books occasionally, go to your library’s website and find what else they have to offer! Chances are you’re missing some great resources.
If you DON’T have a library card, what the heck are you waiting for? You have nothing to lose by getting one. They are free and they can open up a whole world of possibilities for you!
[…] you have a library card? Hopefully, the answer is yes! But… did you know that you can get so much more than just […]
This was really interesting to read! I love the range of posts, there is really something for everyone. Thank you for sharing your suggestions too, great post!