12 Reasons Why Libraries are the Ultimate Frugal Resource

Libraries have always been the frugal person’s best friend. These days, libraries offer much more than just books and the old stereotype of librarians as prim little old ladies making everyone shush has gone out the window.

Here are just a few of the resources available for free or low cost at your public library.

1. Books, of course, but not just the traditional printed variety. You can get books on tape or cd for adults and children. Many libraries now offer the ability to download MP3 audio books directly from their website. If you prefer to read, some library websites also offer ebooks that can be read on your computer or an e-reader like the Kindle or Nook.

2. Music. Again, it’s not just limited to CDs and other physical media these days, some libraries also offer the ability to download music that you can listen to on your computer and MP3 player. There are restrictions on what you can do with the media after you’ve downloaded it but this can be an excellent way to sample a wide variety of music or for parents to learn new songs to sing with their children.

3. Videos of all kinds. Everything from the latest television series to education films are available at the library. You might have to put yourself on a waiting list to get popular new releases but in the meantime you can enjoy some older films that you might have missed the first time around. Some libraries have a rental fee but you can feel good that the funds are going to a public resource. Again, a few libraries offer a limited number of videos as digital downloads on their websites.

4. Storytime isn’t just sitting still and listening to a book anymore. At my public library story time consists of several stories, songs with movement activities and the opportunity to play with educational toys with the other kids after it’s all finished. It’s a great way to meet other parents and get your child used to being around other children and acting appropriately during structured activities without paying for Mommy and Me or Gymboree class.

5. Public meeting areas. Your library might be able to offer facilities for your group to hold meetings or study for free or low cost.

6. Free Internet and computers. If you don’t have access to a computer or the net at home, use the libraries. Some might require you to sign up in advance or have a long waiting time, so be sure to call and find out if you have an urgent need to use the computer. You’ll also need to provide your own way of saving any work that you have done, such as a USB stick or diskette, check to see what your library allows and if they have storage media available to purchase.

7. A free office. I’ve been known to pack up my laptop and head to the library for a relatively quiet place to work where my kids can’t constantly interrupt me. Many libraries offer free wireless Internet and even outlets to plug in your charger. It’s a great way to work away from home without having to pay for a cup of coffee.

8. Cheap used books. Most libraries have a support organization called Friends of the Library or something similar that holds sales of used library materials that have been pulled out of circulation plus donated items several times a year. In some cities, they even run a year round thrift store where you can find all sorts of great used books.

9. Special resource centers. Many libraries have put together special reference collections to help people start a small business, write grants for non-profits, genealogy, home and auto repair or parenting to name a few. It makes it super easy to find the materials you need to get a head start on your research.

10. Online databases. Check your library’s website to see which online databases you can access with just your library card number. Others might only be available using computers at the library for free.

11. Classes and talks. Everything from learning how to use a computer to discussions with authors are available at libraries. Not only will you learn something new but it’s a great way to meet others in your community.

12. Librarians are awesome. Most of them are willing and able to help you find the information you need and can give you the heads up on other resources in the community. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, after all they went to school because they want to help people use the library!

A great place to find out what your own local library has available is their website. Take advantage of all the wonderful services and resources that are available to you!

Tracy O’Connor is the mother of 5 boys and a freelance writer who provides ghostwriting services. Follow her on twitter.

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