In an era of eReaders, tablets and audio books, the humble library is often overlooked. Most of us likely have fond memories of their local library. From afternoons spent browsing the shelves, to activities and the unparalleled excitement of learning a book you’d requested was in stock; libraries have acted as community hubs for generations. As more and more of our lives become dependent on technology, don’t forget, there are still plenty of reasons to head to your local library.
Your local library is more than books
Libraries are a hub of much more than just books. Of course, books are still their bread and butter, but you can also borrow CDs, DVDs and computer games from your local library these days. On top of that, most libraries also offer free WiFi, computer access, and free photocopying.
Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash
It’s (usually) free
Need we say more? There aren’t many things around that are free to use these days, but your local library is one of them. You can borrow several books at once and will only have to pay if you’re fined for returning them late. Some of the other items you can borrow from the library come with a small cost attached, but this is always much less than the cost of buying the item for yourself.
They’ve gone digital
Many libraries have embraced our penchant for technology and now offer digital libraries of eBooks and audio books that you can download. E-libraries work very similarly to normal ones. You have to be a member of the library to access their catalogue and borrow books. If somebody has already borrowed the eBook or audio book you want to read, then you can join the waiting list. You’ll automatically receive the book, downloaded straight to your device, when it’s your turn to borrow it. Likewise, when your lending period is up, it will automatically disappear. Perfect if you prefer to use an eReader, or don’t think you’ll remember to return books on time!
Related: Cheap ways to get into reading
It’s peaceful and quiet
Libraries are renowned for being peaceful, quiet places to spend time. Coffee shops, with their refreshments and WiFi, have become many peoples’ go-to when they need down time or space to focus. But, they can still be bustling and difficult to concentrate in. Libraries also have free WiFi, but will give you the peace and quiet you need to concentrate. You can even hire spaces in some libraries – perfect if you’re working on a group project.
Learn more about your local area
Some libraries, particularly large ones, keep archives full of old newspapers, maps and other information about your local area. Many have records going back decades, if not centuries! Whether you’ve recently moved or are a life-long resident, it’s fascinating to learn more about your local area. What secrets will you uncover?
Research your family history
From mouth swabs that promise to reveal your genetic makeup to rummaging through old birth and death records, learning about the history of your family can be incredibly interesting. A lesser known fact about libraries is that they have free access to ancestry.com and all its global sites. If you were to subscribe yourself, you’d be looking at a cost of up to £20 a month for this! Being able to dig around in your roots using the multiple resources libraries have to offer, for free, is ideal. Whether you’re just dipping your toe into family history, or already know a lot about your ancestors; head to the library to find out more. Who knows what you might uncover!
Visit your local library this year on World Book Day to see what special activities they have planned!
