We are fortunate to have over 9,000 public libraries in the United States.
Libraries offer free content to local communities. Public libraries have always been a repository of books, but their role is changing and expanding. Americans have been moving away from printed content and are turning to digital access for much of their reading.
Library leaders are adapting and redesigning public libraries to provide the type of content their patrons want.
While borrowing books is still popular with many people there is also a demand for libraries to offer content that has not been traditionally associated with libraries. Here are some examples of how our libraries are changing and what content you may find at your local library.
Books
Not only can you borrow books but also eBooks and audiobooks. Why pay when you can borrow them from the library for free? Many sites offer eBooks and audiobooks but almost all charge a monthly fee. Use apps like Hoopla, Kanopy, Libby and Flipster to borrow content.
Libby lets you to borrow eBooks, audiobooks, magazines and newspapers.
Hoopla offers video streaming, audiobooks, comics, eBooks, newspapers, music and more.
Kanopy has an extensive collection of movies, documentaries, foreign films, classic films and other content.
Flipster provides access to digital magazines including National Geographic, Conde Nast, Meredith, Bloomberg and others.
All of the apps are free. You can use them on your smartphone, tablet, computer and streaming devices.
Costumes, prom dresses and other attire
Prom dresses and formal wear, costumes, outerwear and sportswear and just some of the clothing items some libraries may lend.
Tools
Auto and home repair tools, battery chargers, vehicle diagnostic code readers and other tools may be available at your local library.
Technology items
Movie projectors, Wi-Fi hot spots, laptops, tablets, smartwatches, cameras and headphones, 3-D printers, cassette-to-digital converters, DVD players, VCR’s, GoPro cameras, indoor HD antennas, record players, streaming devices, metal detectors and more. Almost all libraries offer internet access when you visit in person. Most have designated areas setup with computers, tablets, laptops and printers for patrons to come in and use.
Cooking and baking supplies
Cake decorating accessories, cookie cutters, cake and pie pans, food dehydrators, food processors, stand mixers and other supplies.
Art and craft supplies and toys
Sewing machines, laminators, label makers, sewing and knitting accessories, art supplies and more.
Children can borrow toys including puzzles, games, dolls, farm animals, action figures, Legos, blocks, music makers and more.
Voter registration forms
Many libraries now offer voter registration forms. They can help you fill out the forms and register to vote.
Tax documents
They provide tax documents and during tax season many libraries offer free tax services. They have tax experts on hand that will help you prepare and file your tax returns.
Database and subscription services
Often you must pay a fee to access online databases. Check with your public library. Many offer this content for free. Some examples are data from the Federal Depository Library Program which provides access to health, employment, science and technology information, books, maps, periodicals and journals. And to Government information and historical documents.
Other information that may be available is ancestry information through ancestry.com, investment information through Morningstar, Consumer Reports, Newsbank and other publications you would normally pay for.
Fun and games
My local library has family game night and teen video game night. They also have movie night, trivia games, sleep overs, laser tag competitions and other fun events.
Educational classes
Technology, cooking, home repair and sewing are just some examples of classes that may be available.
Musical instruments
Many libraries now lend musical instruments.
Museum passes and discounts
A lot of libraries hand out passes for free or discounted admission to museums, art galleries, local sporting events, zoos and other venues. This is a great service, check with your local library to see what they offer.
Meeting rooms
Many libraries offer a gathering space for meetings and other get togethers. These can include cultural, business and civic events, educational events and book club meetings.
Book clubs and story times
Book clubs for children and adults can be a lot of fun. My library often chooses a book to read and when the book club has finished, they invite the author for a visit to discuss the book and answer questions. Book clubs are a great way to make new friends, gain a different prospective, read more and engage with others that have similar interests. And story time at the library for children helps them to make friends and develop a lifelong love of reading.
Seeds
Some libraries give out seeds for vegetables, herbs, and flowers that patrons can pick up and take home to plant.
Schedule time with a librarian
Many libraries allow you to schedule time with a librarian who can help you with research, answer technology questions, instruct you on how to use the digital library and more. You can often schedule time in-person, by phone, using chat or email or virtually using web conferencing.
These are just some of the services libraries may offer. We should do all we can to support our libraries. They are such a valuable resource. Here are some things you can do to ensure your library is well supported and continues to thrive.
Apply for a library card
Most offer online applications. You can also stop in and sign up, it only takes a few minutes to apply for a card and it will give you access to all the library has to offer. Encourage others to apply for a card and share with them the benefits you have received utilizing your public library.
Join Friends of the Library Groups
Friends of the library is a group of volunteers that act as advocates for their library. They help with book sales, fund raisers and other events.
Vote for candidates who support local libraries
Libraries are mainly funded through local and state taxes. Vote for candidates who support libraries and have a history of voting for legislation that benefits libraries.
Sign up with the American Library Association
The American Library Association is a US based library advocacy group. To quote their website
“On our site, you have access to the resources you’ll need to contact your elected officials and advocate for your local libraries. ALA’s Public Policy and Advocacy (PPA) Office was established in 1945 to represent libraries on Capitol Hill. The PPA team is charged with following and influencing legislation, policy, and regulatory issues of importance to the library field and the public. ALA works to ensure that libraries are consistently involved in the legislative and policy decision-making processes by:
Informing government of the needs and concerns of the library community;
Providing library supporters with up-to-date information on government actions or proposals;
Building coalitions with Washington-based representatives and other groups with similar concerns; and
Developing grassroots networks to lobby legislators and further library interests.”
When you visit their site you can search for your elected officials by name, address, or zip code. You will see details about each representative as well as how they have voted to support public libraries.
You can also sign up for their mailing list to receive action alerts and updates on policy issues relevant to libraries.
Become a library trustee
Trustees are advocates for libraries. They work to obtain funding to build new libraries and maintain existing libraries. They set policies and oversee the management and running of the library.
Call your local library to see what you can do to offer support.
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