Beyond books: Eight things you may not know about libraries
As people become more reliant on devices and less likely to crack open a paperback, libraries have been forced to adapt.
Most modern libraries offer e-book and e-magazines, plus movies on DVD and other digital items. But did you know that many also provide such services as free Wi-Fi, used bookstores, and even unique items borrowing.
Coming off of National Library Week, here's a look at eight things you might not know about your local library:
Not into paperbacks? Your local library is aware. According to the American Library Association, 90% of libraries now offer e-books for your device, and 39% lend e-readers to library patrons.
To meet people on the platforms they prefer, many libraries are turning to mobile-based applications. For example, California’s Contra Costa County Public Library began placing QR codes on books, flyers, posters and other print items as part of the library's Snap & Go program. The QR codes allow people to snap the code and download information. Users can download e-books from the bus or download information on library services through their smartphones.
Many libraries are also encouraging users to text their librarians with questions.
Need something besides a book? Your library may have it. Public libraries across the country are getting creative when it comes to being a resource for their communities. Michigan’s Ann Arbor District Library loans out art prints for two months. Library users can also check out art supplies with dies, musical instruments and microscopes.
Board games, fishing poles and tackle boxes are available in Michigan’s St. Clair County Library System.
And it’s not just household items. The Mesa Public Library in Arizona has a seed library, where library card-holders can get three free seed packets a month to start a garden.
The library has multiple varieties of seeds and at the end of growing season, people are encouraged to bring new seeds they harvest and donate them to the library.
Who knew?
Whether you're a new parent or seasoned expert (are you ever really an “expert”?), finding activities and resources to help your child learn, play and develop can be a difficult task. The library is a fabulous starting point for your child to explore during their youngest years.
Almost every library has specific resources and activities designed for newborns, infants and toddlers. The Indianapolis Public Library hosts a “Journey Around the World in 30 Days!” event where children learn about international cultures through music, dance and art. And what about shy readers? The library also hosts a “Paws to Read” event which helps children who are reluctant readers gain self-confidence by reading to a registered therapy dog. So precious!
The ALA’s Association for Library Service for Children (ALSC) is another great resource to tap for programs for school-aged kids. From book-related activities to community service to the arts and STEM activities, there are a ton of ways to get your kids involved in learning to learn.
In addition to providing programs and resources for younger kids, the library can also serve a valuable purpose for teens. Check your local library for services such as test prep and a homework hotline (Indianapolis' library system offers students the ability to text a librarian or email or chat with a tutor for free).
If your child has prepared for the SAT/ACT and is ready to start applying to colleges, libraries also have information on awards, grants and scholarship that can help tremendously with the cost of college tuition (more on that here).
Hit the books... and the treadmill. Libraries have long been a place to give your brain a workout, but what about your body? Treadmill work stations offer a way for library patrons to burn a few calories while reading or surfing the web. Three branches of the Phoenix Public Library allow visitors to reserve walking computers for 30-minute sessions.
As new technologies emerge, libraries are doing more than just adapting existing services for the web — they're becoming hubs for innovation. MACH1 at Burton Barr Central Library in Phoenix and THINKspot at Red Mountain Library in Mesa, Ariz., are two such maker spaces that provide tools and resources for exploring science, technology, engineering, math and art (STEAM).
They offer public access to specialized equipment like 3D printers, as well as training and a collaborative environment in which to create.
For those whose creativity lies in arenas outside of science and technology, other libraries offer classes and services for aspiring artists, novelists and people interested in learning out-of-the-box skills. The Bubbler at Madison Public Library in Wisconsin holds courses ranging from videogame design to screen-printing and painting.
Local artists have also used the Media Lab facilities at the Madison Public Library to record and produce their music.
Libraries have been shifting from book repositories to community learning centers for years. Today, many libraries offer online classes, workforce training, tax aid, health promotion, and resume and career-building support.
The Jacksonville Public Library in Florida is one of several that partners with programs like the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) TaxAide, which provides people and families whose total household income is under $52,000 with tax-prep services.
Many libraries also host book clubs and community events like art shows.
The library can save you money. Think about how much you spend on Amazon to order e-books or on Netflix to stream TV shows. Some of the services you pay for on a monthly basis are available at the library for free.
With a library card, many people can access the site Hoopla and instantly borrow movies, music and e-books.
If you aren't using other streaming services often, it may pay off to use your library for your entertainment needs.
But just how much are you saving? The Prince William Public Library in Virginia has an online calculator that allows users to add up just how much the library helps them save.
Here's a look:
