You might assume that access to education and entertainment always comes at a cost. However, local libraries offer a wealth of free, useful, and fun services with their library card.
Whether you’re a parent wanting children’s programming, a student looking for research materials, or anyone in between, libraries can save you money all over the place.
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- With the Libby app, you can “join” multiple libraries and access even more ebooks and audiobooks.
- Some libraries provide free courses, tech support, and even help for starting your own business.
- You may be able to get free tickets to cultural spaces, like museums, with your library card.
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Libby App
When you get a library card, you aren’t just getting access to whatever hard-copy books are available. You can also set up a free Libby account, an app that allows you to check out all the ebooks and audiobooks your library has.
My favorite Libby trick is to add multiple library cards to my Libby account. Larger, metropolitan library systems in your state will allow any resident of that state to open a library card with them.
Then, add that card to your Libby account, along with your local library card. You can then access their audiobooks in addition to whatever is in your local library.
By using this trick, I’ve never had to place holds and wait weeks for an audiobook!
Museum Tickets
Want to catch an exhibit at your local museum? Most libraries offer a certain number of free passes per day or weekend that you can reserve with your library card and a valid ID. These are free, and you can often book a pass up to a couple of months in advance.
Different passes will have different limits on how many individuals can enter and, in some cases, youth can get in free.
Visit your local library website to view the details of available passes for your region.
READ MORE: Cheap Staycation Ideas
Music Lessons
Always wanted to learn piano but the high cost has made lessons inaccessible for you?
Check with your local library to see if they offer free lessons. Many offer spaces and lessons with local teachers at no cost.
They are most likely booked month by month, so check availability to get on the schedule.
Your library may have instruments like keyboards, guitars, drums, and more available for checkout as well.
Recording Studios
If you want to start your own podcast or YouTube channel like I did, start at your local library before buying or renting equipment. They often have studios available to reserve for free.
Equipment in your local library is often fairly high-quality, so you can avoid spending tons of money on a mic and camera before your creator journey has even begun.
Free Meeting Spaces
Many libraries have rooms of various sizes that members can reserve for free ahead of time.
If you’re planning a meeting, looking for study space, or hosting an event, check with your library first before renting space somewhere else.
My library even has maker spaces available with concrete floors and sinks, which are perfect for more artistic gatherings.
Programming for All Ages
Parents, fear not! Your library likely offers programming to keep your children engaged and entertained during summer and holiday breaks.
In fact, libraries offer events all year long, including connecting participants with their community through group hikes, arts and crafts classes, games, and more.
Drop in for chess club, sign up for a reading challenge, or go to a yoga class at no charge!
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Online Courses
Certifications are a great way to get a pay bump at work, earn a specific qualification for a new job, or just enrich your life in general. However, most online courses cost a lot of money if they aren’t covered by your employer.
With your library card, you’ll have access to free online resources to upskill and get those certifications at no cost. For example, my library offers access to Gale’s Udemy, LinkedIn Learning, Pronunciator (free language courses), Craft and Hobby, and more.
Tip: In addition to offering online courses, many libraries are also certified testing centers for various exams.
Computers, Printers, and Tech Support
Your library can help you navigate the latest and greatest advancements with technology-related events and one-on-one support. My library even has a 3-D printer you can use for a small fee.
Libraries also offer free internet and computer usage. One of my favorite services that libraries provide comes from my days as a broke law student: cheap printing! When I was in a pinch, I could always run to my local library to take advantage of their free printing service.
Entrepreneurial Assistance
Nothing connects the community quite like a library does, and if you’re starting a business, connections are everything.
Your library may offer free career services or business reference collections that help you grow your business, like market research, demographics tracking, and data on industry trends.
READ MORE: How to Start a Business with No Money
TL;DR: Free Library Resources Beyond Books
You can do way more at your library than just check out books. When you get a free library card, you’re gaining access to hundreds of new resources at no cost.
The services I’ve listed above aren’t an exhaustive list of what libraries have to offer and each will be unique to your area. So, head to the nearest branch of your local library, set up your free card, and take advantage of what your library has to offer.
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