Linda McMaken, provided by
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
If it has been a few years or a few decades since you've ventured into your local library, you're going to be very surprised by what you find. No longer are these dusty institutions of quiet corners, musty books and stern librarians, they are home to bestsellers, coffee carts, teen rooms, community, and civic gatherings. Libraries offer computer classes, babysitting workshops, tutoring programs and literacy programs, most of which are free, or are offered at a nominal fee. Not all services mentioned in this article are available at every library, but it's worth finding out if your local library offers a similar option.
1. Read for FreeLibraries are known for books, offering fiction and non-fiction hardbacks, paperbacks, and eBooks. The eBooks can be downloaded into nearly any format to fit your computer, eReader or other device. The downloaded books will expire at the end of their loan period so no returns necessary. Overdrive is one provider of download services to libraries. Take a look to see how simple it is: www.overdrive.com/.
The cost of an average hardcover book is $18.99, an average children's picture book is $12.99, an average paperback book is $6.99 and an eBook download is between 99 cents and $9.99.
The cost of an average hardcover book is $18.99, an average children's picture book is $12.99, an average paperback book is $6.99 and an eBook download is between 99 cents and $9.99.
2. Magazines and Newspapers for FreeMagazine titles from Reader's Digest to Vogue to Hot Rod, including back issues are available for loan. Local newspapers and the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, New York Times and others are available for reading in the library.
The average cost of a magazine (monthly) is $5.99 and the cost of an average newspaper subscription is $60 per year.
The average cost of a magazine (monthly) is $5.99 and the cost of an average newspaper subscription is $60 per year.
3. Listen for FreeMusic CDs from classical to rock and roll are waiting. If you need music for a children's party, wedding, anniversary or just listening while relaxing you can find it here. If you prefer your music downloadable, libraries offer MP3 downloads with a limited loan period.
The average cost of a music CD is $10.99
The average cost of a music CD is $10.99
You can also check out audio books on every subject for your commute to work, for waiting on your kids at various sports practices or to listen to while you walk.
The average cost of an audio book is $21.99
The average cost of an audio book is $21.99
4. Free Periodical SearchesIf you are a high school or college student, you will be required to cite sources, footnote your thesis, or find some obscure fact for a class. If you find you need an article that appeared in Time Magazine on global warming from 2004, the library will have it on a database. The only cost would be for print/copies. Here's a quick look: EBSCO Periodical Search.
5. Librarian Access 24/7If you can't find the answers you need, libraries await your question. In Ohio, they have Know it Now, (your local libraries will have different names for this feature) which gives 24/7 access to an online research librarian.
6. Internet and Wi-FiYou can have free internet access and Wi-Fi, all you need is a library card. Be aware that most libraries utilize "censoring" programs for juvenile users, and parental consent may be required to use the Internet.
The average cost of internet service is $22.00 monthly.
The average cost of internet service is $22.00 monthly.
7. Watch Movies for FreeLibraries offer children's movies like "Sponge Bob," "The Magic School Bus" and Disney movies to informational DVDs from National Geographic and the Travel Channel, to How-To instructional videos as well as major motion pictures.
The cost of an average movie DVD is $12.99, and $3.99 for a DVD rental.
The cost of an average movie DVD is $12.99, and $3.99 for a DVD rental.
8. Learn a Foreign Language - FreeTraveling abroad on business or vacation than check out the free foreign language learning databases. Using a service from BYKI, patrons can choose to learn over 70 languages. Their interactive learning site offers individual learning, flash cards, and words of the day.
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