5 Ways the Library Can Save You Money

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The library...not just a place for old books to hang out.

I’ve been spending a lot more time at our local library.

It’s one of my favorite places.

Can’t get enough of this place.

Maybe I’ll write a song about how much I love it here.

Until then, here are 5 ways that the library helps you save a bit of money.

Books, Movies, Music, and Software

Books are free at the library. Unless you’re building a collection, why go anywhere else? And there’s more to most libraries these days than books. There are times when I walk in my local library and it looks like I’m in Blockbuster (btw, you can try Blockbuster Online free for two weeks). They have a ton of movies and TV shows (full series!). I may use them to catch up on Lost.

Books on tape or CD are a great freebie too for the person with the big commute. You could plow through a classic novel or learn a new language. My library has Rosetta Stone CDs available. This could mean thousands in savings when I finally tackle that “learn Spanish” goal.

Computer Use and Free WiFi

Most libraries these days are equipped with computers that you can freely use to do just about anything. Most online software is now in the cloud anyway (like Google Docs), so it’s safe to say you could almost exclusively use your library PC as your own computer.

Another thing I enjoy is the free WiFi that I get there. I can bring my own laptop and camp out for a few hours, or for the day. Better than an Internet Cafe that charges for WiFi or an expensive coffee shop expects you to buy a $5 lattes each day.

Educational Classes

It’s likely that your local library has some free live classes to offer you as well. Many local businesses offer free seminars and training through the library in exchange for advertising. At my local library right now there is a weekly tax preparation seminar where you could learn to file your own taxes.

Meeting Space

It’s tough finding free office space these days. But your local library might have some quiet study rooms you can rent out for free by the hour. If you work from home, this can be an excellent free place to go for one or two days a week to experience another environment.

Kids Activities

Lastly, the library is a great place to take your kids. Skip the mall and the arcade, take your kids to the free library once or twice a week. If your local library has free programs available, they’re sure to be aimed at your little ones. Take advantage of these free offerings, and pick up a few books as well.

Other Freebies the Library Offers: magazines, tax forms, maps, travel guides, and more..

What are some more ways to save at the library?

Image by boltron-

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