Poor libraries. I feel like they’re being forgotten these days when they’re really one of the greatest assets we still have access to. So an ode to the public library was in order. Since we’ve moved to our new home I’ve fully realized just how awesome libraries are. Here are a few reasons why you need to go check yours out.
- They’re free. Which seems like a no brainer, but free access to books is a big deal. I joined a book club a few months back and after spending $15 a piece on the first couple of books it became obvious that I couldn’t keep that up. Sure I love owning books, but book club was going to get expensive and fast. Libraries have said books, for free.
- They’ll have what you need or will find a way to get it for you. Sometimes they may not have the book I need for the next book club, but they can easily get it from another branch. I’m a huge fan of placing holds. It’s so easy to go online, search what book I need, place a hold, and pick it up a few days later.
- There are contests that get you free stuff. My library is currently doing a reading challenge that if you read five books in different genres then you can get coffee free from Dunkin’ Donuts for a year. What?! Plus they have drawings for iPads and other awesome stuff every few months. My library also had a gingerbread building contest around Christmas.
- There are book sales for children’s books and novels if you happen to like owning books. You’ll get them at a seriously reduced price while helping out your library with funds.
- Want to get your kid out of the house and doing something? They have events constantly. Libraries are a fantastic place to find community events that are engaging but also focus on reading and education.
- Video games. Tons of them. Love playing games or have kids that constantly want new ones? You can check them out from your library, play them all the way through, and not have to spend a penny.
Libraries are freakin’ amazing. I basically have about three books checked out at any given time and am constantly finding more ways to use the library system. So go. Check yours out. See what they have to offer and get a library card. You won’t regret it.
