How The Public Library Can Save You Money

If it has been a while since you visited your local public library, you should give it another go. Most libraries are full of ways to save you money and the best part is, it’s free. Many public libraries are full of modern conveniences and you may be surprised that the old card catalog is long gone if it has been a while since you ventured in. Below are some ways the library can save you money.

How The Public Library Can Save You Money

Free entertainment – The public library has hours and hours of entertainment in the form of free books to read as well as community programs like movie nights and craft groups. You can often find local clubs that meet such as sewing clubs and even book clubs at the library as well.

Free movies and music – Many public libraries have free music CD’s as well as DVDs and Blue-ray movies available to check out. There is no need to buy movies or rent them through the mail since many libraries also offer the newest releases.

Free internet or wifi – The public library is the perfect place to go if you cannot afford the internet or you are trying to cut your bills. You can generally get free wifi, and most libraries will allow you to sit and use your laptop as long as you want during hours of operation. If you are without a computer, many public libraries have free internet cafes attached to them. While the time limit is usually an hour per day or visit (some libraries allow you to get back in line after your hour is up for another turn), if you don’t use the internet that much anyway, you might as well just use it for free at the public library.

Money saving classes – Some communities have classes on everything from budgeting to meal planning, and even beginning couponing classes, for free or at extremely low costs at the local public library. If you want learn how to do something without having to pay a lot for a class, inquire at the front desk if you library offers such classes to the public.

Free magazines – Most public libraries subscribe to hundreds of magazines in print and in electronic form that they allow patrons to check out. You can cancel your subscription and just go look at the newest ones at the library once a month. Also, some libraries offer a section in the building for members to drop their used magazines off for others to take for free. If your library doesn’t offer this, ask them to start one. It is not only a great way for everyone to save money, but a great thing to do for the environment as well.

Free textbooks – If you are in college, hitting the university’s library or possibly you public library can mean you don’t have to buy expensive textbooks. These reference materials are often not available for checkout, but can be used on site as long as you want or need. Here are some other ways to save money on textbooks.

DIY ideas- Since there are a lot of books at the library, why not check out some of them that are all about helping you fix things and make things for your home for free rather than buying these books?

Free or nearly free meeting rooms – If you are planning an small event, ask about using the meeting rooms at the library. You may be surprised how inexpensive they are to use. Some libraries offer them for free for short periods of time and may even have materials you can use such as VCRs, DVD players and projectors.

How do you use the library to save money? Let me know in the comments!