8 other useful things you can get with a library card besides just books!

Everyone has access to a local library. In elementary school, we learn about the resources libraries provide us with, yet only about 60% of residents ages 16 and older have a library card. After New York City’s public libraries faced budget cuts and were forced to close on Sundays, residents were encouraged to get a library card and take advantage of their resources. Your local library has a lot more than just books – here are some things you can access with a library card!

1. Free courses

Many libraries offer free classes in a variety of areas, from English classes to photography. If you’re looking to start a new hobby or learn a new skill that will help you at work or school, check out what classes your local library offers.

2. Workshops

Libraries also host a variety of workshops, similar to the free courses. These workshops, which cover a variety of topics, usually run a few times and are great resources. Check with your local library for upcoming seminars. Since these workshops only run once, there is no commitment required. They can be a great option for students or anyone without free time to learn something new or improve a skill or hobby.

3. Volunteering

Want to give back to your community? Check to see if your local library needs volunteers! Often, libraries offer free tutoring to students in the area. You might be a good fit if you’re good at math, science, English, or another elementary school subject! It’s also a great way to earn volunteer hours for your school and future college and job applications.

4. Author talks

Are you a fan of a particular author or filmmaker? Check out your local library’s events to see if they have any public readings or book signings! If you can’t find an author you’re a fan of, this could be an excellent opportunity to discover new authors and books! If you’re interested in becoming an author yourself, this is a great way to meet and network with published authors!

5. Film screenings

Did you know that libraries host movie screenings? These aren’t usually the kind of screenings where the whole cast answers questions, but they often feature older films and many classics – some educational, some really entertaining. It’s a great way to see a movie with friends or family without spending a lot of money. If you live in areas like New York City or Los Angeles, libraries sometimes host movie screenings followed by a question-and-answer session. It’s worth checking out.

6. Creative spaces

Some libraries offer creative spaces for borrowing cameras, musical instruments, and sewing machines. Every library is different; some offer more than others, but if you need to patch holes in your favorite sweater or pair of pants, check to see if you have access to a sewing machine near your library. You may find that you have access to things you never thought were possible.

7. Museums

Some libraries allow you to use your card to enter nearby museums! New York City public libraries do this through a program called Culture Pass. With your library card, you can visit over 100 cultural institutions in all 5 boroughs. Other cities, like Washington DC, offer a similar summer program. This is a great way to spend a free day in your city.

8. Audiobooks

No, not the CD audiobooks that you can only play with a CD player or radio. These are online audiobooks! With the Libby app, you can import your library card information and access over 100 audiobooks for free! Like a library, there are only a limited number of copies, which means there are occasionally waiting lists for access to some books. But if you’re not in a hurry to read a book offered on Libby, it’s worth the wait.

Each library offers different resources depending on their location. Check with your local library to learn how to get a library card and what you can do with it!