10 things you can get for free if you have a library card

Modern libraries are much more than dusty shelves and librarians who constantly tell you to sit quietly.

Фото: Depositphotos

Dee Culbertson, director of the Madison Public Library in Madison, Ohio, notes that libraries are rapidly becoming cultural centers with access to everything you can imagine, even if you are not visiting the library to read books.

“We love that our loyal customers can have it all. They can use the same library card to access free online resources including LinkedIn Learning, Sony Music Catalog, streaming video and more. The library now offers more than just books,” says Culberton.

Therefore, before spending money on a subscription or a one-time purchase of something, call your local library and find out what services they can offer you.

Edition Money Talks News led 10 examples of goods and services that can be obtained for free, with a library card.

1. Video streaming

For many years, you could watch DVDs and Blu-ray from your local library. But you can even get free access to streaming services through membership in your library.

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For example, if your library works with the Kanopy streaming service, you can access more than 30 000 free movies without leaving your home.

Visit the Kanopy website to find out if your library is involved in this program, or ask the library if they give their members access to streaming video.

2. Electronic publications (books, magazines)

Looking for a magazine or book to read on your mobile device? Your reader card can give you that too.

Find out if your library offers access to applications like Flipster, which is designed for digital magazines, or OverDrive, which has e-books and audio books.

If you have the correct credentials to enter such an application, you can download or read various publications for a certain period of time for free.

“I reserve audiobooks from the library and save hundreds of dollars a year,” says Zach Miller, who listens to audiobooks while working out.

3. Online courses

LinkedIn Learning offers its catalog of online courses for free for those with a reader card. Ask your library if it works with LinkedIn Learning or similar services.

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Los Angeles resident Kai Chang Ho enjoys free access to LinkedIn Learning through the Los Angeles Public Library to take courses on blockchain technology.

“That's pretty cool when you consider there are 13 courses and LinkedIn tuition starts at $000 per month,” says Ho.

4. Self-improvement classes

Check out what types of self-help courses and workshops are offered at your local library.

You may be surprised to learn that you can study budget planning, take foreign language lessons, and practice using the technologies in the library for free.

“To get this kind of training anywhere else, you have to pay at least $30 per lesson,” says Danielle Bayard Jackson of Tampa, Florida. “It’s free at our local library.”

In addition, by attending such classes, you can make new friends.

5. Entrance to museums

Nancy Selig of Milton, Mass., Was surprised to find that the Milton Public Library offers free admission to Boston museums.

Libraries throughout the country offer their customers free admission to museums and other local attractions. You just need to ask.

Фото: Depositphotos

6. 3D printing

The Ohio State Library in Madison offers 3-D printing and even laser engraving.

Many libraries have 3D printers that allow you to try out the technology—or even print simple household items like a spoon or phone case at a discount.

If you want to access advanced technology, but are not ready to buy such a printer for yourself, call your local library and find out what they can offer you.

7. Party Supplies

Some libraries have access to baking dishes, fondue pots, coffee makers, chocolate fountains, and even large coffee makers.

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These items are often too expensive to be purchased at a one-time event, but the library may have a set of necessary items that you can rent.

8. Working space

Free Wi-Fi, as well as complete silence in the libraries make them a great place to do homework or work.

Feyran Liu, the owner of a strategic consulting firm in San Francisco, uses classrooms in the city's public library for work.

“Before there were jobs, there were libraries,” Liu says. “The library helps me save at least $300 a month and gives me a nice, quiet office.”

9. Conference rooms

Some libraries allow you to reserve meeting rooms for free, especially if you are part of a nonprofit or similar group.

If you are looking for a place to hold a meeting, find out in the nearest library, maybe they will provide it to you.

10. Programs for children

The library should not be considered as a nanny. However, if you are looking for something for your kid where he can be taught a lot, the library may be just that place.

Public libraries offer after-school programs, including educational and practical classes for young children and even teenagers.

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