The Secret (free) Community Resource You’re Probably Not Using
Why You Should Never Sleep On Your Local Public Library
When most people think of their local public library, they conjure images of rows upon rows of dusty books, and a cardigan-clad librarian armed with a withering stare and an endless supply of shushes.
Now in our humble opinion, reading books will never go out of style and thus, we’re already big library fans. However, with summer in full swing we thought it’d be the perfect time to remind folks of all the cool things you can do at your local library (besides checking out books).
One small caveat before we dive in: Not everything on the list below is available at every library, check out your local branch to learn more.
Top 10 coolest things you can do at your local public library
Get Creative in the Library Makerspace
Many local public libraries offer free access to 3D printers, advanced graphic design and sound mixing software, tools, musical instruments, sewing machines, crafting supplies and tools, and even recording studios. As if that weren’t enough, many libraries also offer free access to online tutorial services like Craftsy, so you can get guidance in a free, easy-to-use format from experts.
Connect to Your Roots
Get help to discover your family tree and learn about genealogy. Attend lectures with genealogy experts to learn how to use census and vital records, newspapers, DNA testing, and other important resources to discover your family tree.
Start a Summer Garden
Most public libraries offer a “seed library,” where folks can come in and get various seeds for planting. Visit your local branch and pick up flower, plant, and vegetable seeds, all free of charge!
Visit a State Park or Museum
Visit museums, zoos, science centers, or even a wine train at a low cost or for free with your library card. Visit your library’s website to see their full list of current library partners to learn more.
Discover the Library of Things
Your local public library offers more than just books to borrow. Did you know, that most libraries also maintain a “library of things,” where you can check out things like gaming consoles and video games, yard maintenance equipment like pressure washers and post hole diggers, projectors, cameras, power drills, kitchen equipment, instruments, turntables, Go-Pro, and lawn games? Offerings vary by location, but the next time you need a bird watching kit or compound microscope, keep your local library in mind!
Attend Classes & Workshops
Most public libraries offer a variety of free classes & workshops all year round. Examples from libraries in California and Minnesota include Intro to Chinese Calligraphy, Somali Cultural Festival, Bracelet Making, Community Song Circle, Storytelling Festivals, Galaxy Painting, Recycled Weaving Series, and so many more.
Find your local branch (more on that below) and check out what’s available near you.
Launch Your Career
Visit the library to get help in finding a new job, exploring a career path or new field, learning skills to stand out, and more. Most libraries offer job coaching and mentoring, online training and test prep, resume writing guidance, and job search support. They’ll help you create (or update) your resume, practice interview skills, and identify the skills or training that will help you reach your career goals.
Swing by for (Free) Lunch
During the summer months, many libraries offer free lunch for youth ages 18 and under.
Keep Your Brain Happy & Healthy
Swing by the library and pick up a brain health kit, designed to stimulate and strengthen brain function with games, puzzles, and fidgets. A great resource for people of any age!
Write a Novel of Your Own
Interested in writing? Visit your local library and get access to free tools so you can create and publish work of your own. Once you’ve drafted your masterpiece, utilize the Indie Author Project through the library to connect with other local, independent authors and gain exposure. (They also offer access to BiblioBoard Library, a resource designed to help folks discover books from independent authors).
Have we convinced you yet?
Click your IYT state below to check out the public libraries near you!
Find your local library