10 things you didn't know you can get free with your library card
Go beyond the books and enjoy your subscription.
Libraries have always helped to promote literacy and to level the educational game rules. Nowadays, they are more important than ever, offering crucial community spaces in an increasingly privatized world. Today's libraries go beyond books of books to offer a wide range of Free resources And the services to their members - many of which fly under the radar of the middle library card holder. Wondering what you can get free via your local library system? These 10 things that you probably do not realize are available free of charge for you.
A trip to the library is still worth it, but experts say that having a library card can also open doors in other places.
"As a resident of Los Angeles, my library card gives me free access (and sometimes parking) at participating museums, at the Los Angeles zoo, several cultural spaces and more than 200 state parks through their Discover and go program," MARKIA Brown , AFC, accredited financial advisor and certified financial education instructor at Silver taking , tell Better life.
Likewise, the New York Public Library (NYPL) offers access to Crop pass , "A service that allows library card holders to visit city cultural institutions free of charge." The list of museums, theaters and participating gardens in number more than 100.
Katie Woods , communications director and marketing for County Libraries of San Mateo (SMCL), adds that many libraries in the United States offer free or low cost passes to theaters, scientific centers, etc.
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Hiking and camping equipment
Brown notes that some libraries also freely lend other resources and equipment, including hiking and camping equipment. Rather than investing in your own equipment, you can consult tents, sleeping bags and more, in order to make outdoor exploration more widely accessible to the community.
"As a financial advisor, I always encourage families to register for library cards for this advantage alone to help them entertain children without breaking the bank," she said.
Depending on where you live, your library card can also help you generate free access to everything you need to launch a new hobby. Woods says that some libraries lend sewing machines, instruments, gardening tools , bikes, or even karaoke machines! AE0FCC31AE342FD3A1346EBB1F342FCB
Although this may vary depending on the location, many libraries will serve nutritious meals for all children under 19 without imposing restrictions on access. It is generally offered according to the principle of first arrival, first served.
There is something special in a good old-fashioned book and copying paper, but you may not have realized that you can also access free electronic books, music and rentals of Films with your library card. To start, consult your local library branch to see what is available, or consult Overdrive To browse online media collections.
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Applications and subscriptions
Applications and subscriptions are also available for free when you have a library card. For example, Woods says that SMCL is the first public library in Partnership with CALM , offering free subscriptions for guided meditations, courses and tools to manage stress and mental health. But that's not all.
Another popular subscription offered to the SMCL library gives you access to The New York Times . Those looking to learn another language can use their library card to download mango And start the learning lessons for digital languages.
For those who seek to Complete their high school diploma At any age, some libraries offer a free online course set that can lead to an accredited diploma. It is an excellent option for anyone who wishes to continue his studies and open up new career or higher education opportunities that require more than GED.
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Career advancement opportunities
If you are looking to launch or advance your career, some libraries will also help you access professional development programming. Woods says that thanks to the SMLC program, you can win "a career certificate in a high -growing and high demand field".
You do not know if your local branch offers these types of resources? We think that 75% of libraries Offer a form of career services - so it's worth calling for asking.
If you lack WiFi access, you know how limiting it can be. By becoming a member of your local library, you can get free internet access - without mentioning a remote workplace.
In fact, certain library systems, including NYPL, offer Free wifi, at home to people who live in the identified coverage area.
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Children's activities
If you are a parent, you know how priceless it is to find major activities for children to occupy your children. In many libraries, it is not only invaluable but also free.
Some of the most common programs include reading, access to play areas and game groups, homework, arts and crafts, cinema evenings, game groups, etc. Contact your local library to find out exactly what is offered.