The Hidden Perks of Your Local Library
The reading room of the Multnomah County Central Library. (Roger Bong)
Believe it or not, libraries are more important than ever, especially in our highly digital age! They may seem old-fashioned or be something you rarely think about at all, but they’re important communal hubs full of information, entertainment, and helpful tools.
Thanks to the pandemie, it had been many years since I had been to a proper library (not just a bookstore) and I didn’t realize how many cool things you could check out. I’m talking Kitchen Aide Mixer and 3D Printer levels of cool. The whole point of my blog is to share cool things I think will enrich people’s lives, and libraries fit that to a tee.
Despite being a more popular destination than a trip to the movies, libraries are often on the chopping block when it comes to tax budgets. An alarming number of US citizens live in “library deserts,” or areas 10+ miles from a rural library. It’s no wonder literacy rates are on the decline. We have to do what we can to keep libraries accessible for as many people as possible, and thankfully that’s as simple as getting your library card.
There’s no fee when getting your library card, and you unlock many benefits you may not be aware of. One such benefit is access to the Libby app, a digital gateway to your local library's resources, including a wide variety of e-books, audiobooks, and more.
The Morgan Library & Museum, listed as one of the gorgeous libraries in NYC. Photograph: By marcobrivio.photography / Shutterstock
The Simple Steps to Get Yours
Getting a library card is usually a quick, straightforward process requiring photo ID and proof of residency. In fact, getting my library card took less than 2 minutes, even with an outdated address on my ID (they let you use utility bills as proof of residency, so don’t stress).
Visit Your Local Library: Head to your nearest library and let a librarian know you want to sign up for a library card.
Fill Out an Application: Complete a library card application form with your details and address. Generally, there is an information desk at the front of the library where a librarian can provide the necessary form.
Provide ID: You may need to show a form of identification (such as a driver's license or utility bill) to verify your residency.
Agree to Library Policies: Familiarize yourself with the library's borrowing policies and agree to follow them. This is detailed on the application form.
Viola! Receive Your Card: Once your application is processed, which happens the moment you hand it back to the librarian, you will be issued your library card, unlocking a world of resources and opportunities.
It’s that simple! After that, you’re free to wander the library and see what fun things it has to offer.
The Tuscaloosa Public Library. Photograph: Gary Cosby Jr. - The Tuscaloosa News.
The Hidden Benefits of a Library Card
While many people associate the library with just borrowing books, they also have so much more for you to borrow. I was shocked by the large displays of movies and video games they had available! My branch even has a variety of tools and kitchen appliances you can check out with your library card. Fan of manga and tabletop games? Your local library may have exactly what you’re looking for.
Here’s a brief list of what a library card can unlock for you:
Access to Digital Resources: Most libraries provide free access to a wide range of digital resources, including e-books, audiobooks, online courses, digital databases, and even movies. Keep reading to learn how to sign up for some of these free resources!
Free Events and Workshops: Libraries often host a variety of events, workshops, and lectures on various topics. These include book clubs, author readings, technology classes, comedy shows, local bands, and more. Libraries are one of the last free “third places” available for more people — third places being a place other than work or home that you can go to for free. Libraries provide a safe hub for community engagement or private reading rooms for people who need a quiet place to study.
Tech Services: Some libraries offer technology services such as computer access, printers, and Wi-Fi. For some, the library is the only place where they have reliable access to these amenities. By offering these services, libraries help ensure everyone in the community has equal access to information and resources.
Cultural Passes and Discounts: Certain libraries offer passes to museums and cultural attractions and discounts on recreational activities, allowing you to explore your city affordably.
Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago Public Library. Winner of the Driehaus Architecture Award. Photograph Courtesy of the Chicago Public Library.
By supporting your local library and getting your library card, you gain access to a vast collection of resources and contribute to preserving knowledge and enriching your community. Even if you’re unable to make it out to the library regularly, getting a library card still helps preserve these resources for the future, and you can access many e-books and movies from home with Libby or Kanopy.
Libby: A Gateway to Endless Reading
Libby is a user-friendly app that puts the power of your local library in the palm of your hand. With Libby, you can borrow e-books & audiobooks without having to leave home.
Here's how to get started with Libby:
Download the Libby App: Visit the app store on your device, search for 'Libby by OverDrive,' and download the app to your device. Libby is available for both iOS and Android devices.
Sign Up with Your Library Card: After downloading the app, open it and select your library. Then, enter your library card details when prompted. This will create your Libby account, which you can use to access your local library's digital catalog. Some libraries will even let you sign up for a library card through Libby!
Browse: Explore the wide collection of e-books and audiobooks available through your library's digital catalog.
Borrow and Enjoy: When you find a title you're interested in, simply tap 'borrow.’ This will add the title to your digital library, where you can access it for a set period of time, just like borrowing a physical book from the library. Start reading or listening right away on your device!
The First Stop for E-Books and Audio Books
Libby offers a diverse selection of e-books and audiobooks across various genres, catering to all reading preferences. Whether you're into fiction, non-fiction, mystery, romance, or self-help, you'll find an array of options waiting to be discovered on Libby. Start on Libby instead of paying for another subscription service or paying for an audiobook you’ll only listen to once.
Kanopy: Movies for Library Cardholders
Kanopy stands out as a wonderful platform that offers free movie streaming services to library cardholders. With an extensive collection of films spanning various genres and categories, Kanopy provides a unique opportunity to access premium content at no additional cost. Let's delve into the world of Kanopy and discover how this innovative service can elevate your movie-watching experience.
Here’s how to get set up with Kanopy:
Download the Kanopy App: Begin by downloading the Kanopy app from your preferred app store onto your device.
Sign Up Using Your Library Card: Upon opening the app, select your library, enter your library card details, and create your Kanopy account.
Explore a World of Films: Dive into Kanopy's extensive library, featuring a diverse range of movies, documentaries, classic films, indie flicks, and educational content.
Start Streaming: Select your desired film, hit play, and enjoy a cinematic experience right from the comfort of your own home.
It's noteworthy to mention that a considerable portion of the movies available on Kanopy are typically found on paid subscription services like Netflix, Max, Hulu, and other streaming platforms. Admittedly, it may not have the latest releases on Kanopy, but some great movies are out there. For the latest releases, you can typically find the physical media at your library shortly after it’s released on Blu-Ray or DVD. You can enjoy high-quality cinematic content without any fees by leveraging your library card to access Kanopy's extensive film catalog.
Sign Up Already!
Libraries are wonderful public resources that need protection. The best way to do so is to sign up for a library card and teach others about what they offer! I hope you can make a trip out to the library soon — check out this Public Library Locator Map to find one near you!
I hope you found this post helpful and informative! Have you been to the library recently? Did you learn anything from this post? Leave a comment and let’s continue the conversation the the comments below!
Boston Public Library - Central Library. Photo Courtesy of the Boston Public Library.
