Take Advantage of Your Local Library to Save
Posted on Friday, September 9th, 2011 at 6:12 am
If you’re looking for ways to save money, then you might consider taking advantage of your local library to cut back on a few expenses. Libraries are great resources to help you save on the following expenses.
How the Library Helps You Save
Books, Books, and More Books!
If you’re an avid reader, you’ve probably found that buying books (even used) can add up quickly. Borrowing books from the library is a great money-saving alternative to buying books. After all, how often do you read a book more than once or twice? Even if your library is on the smaller side and you can’t find the book you’re looking for, they can access tons of books through library loan services so don’t be afraid to ask your librarian to help you out.
And Movies Too
Libraries aren’t just for borrowing books – you can also find a good selection of movies to borrow at some libraries. While movies are free to borrow at some libraries, others may charge a small fee of one or two dollars which is put toward maintaining and expanding their movie collection. This is still much less than buying or renting a movie at a rental store.
Browsing the Internet
If you’re tired of paying for costly internet service at home, you might consider saving money by borrowing the libraries internet instead. Nowadays, most libraries offer your choice of a desktop computer with internet or wi-fi that you can access from your own laptop. So find a cozy spot and start browsing for free!
Activities for Kids
Libraries also offer activities for kids which can be a fun, educational, and cost-effective alternative for after school programs or expensive field trips. Activities you might find at your local library are reading programs, book clubs, arts and crafts days, story times, computer classes, movie nights, etcetera. There are activities for all different age groups and interest levels. Library activities are also a great place for you and your kids to get involved in the community and make new friends!
Seminars and Workshops
Libraries don’t just offer activities for kids – they also offer various seminars, work shops, and book clubs for adults. Your local library might even offer workshops on topics that will help you save money! Check your library’s bulletin board or front desk to find out what they offer in your area.
Many people forget about the plethora of amazing resources that libraries have to offer. Just remember, they have much more than just books to help you save money so check in with you local library to find out what they offer!