4 THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD LIBRARY

This is a post that is near and dear to my heart. I had already written this post way before the controversial Forbes anti library post (which they conveniently deleted) from a few weeks ago. I think it is right on time.

When was the last time that you visited your public library?

It’s not a place just for children. Along with being a great place to get books, most libraries also offer many services that help the community including children programs, immigration preparedness classes, tutoring, computer classes, etc. In fact just last week, libraries in my area were providing shelter and relief from the extreme heat to the elderly, homeless, children, and other community members. I know that many libraries around the country are offering free meals to children under the age of 18 during the summer.

Most libraries offer ebooks (and magazines!), audiobooks, music, and movies now where you don’t even have to leave your house. You can just download the app, choose your book/movie/album, and read (or listen). This is great for people (like me) who are pretty bad about turning in their books on time. Speaking of turning in books on time, libraries are now offering extensions to your check outs. It is almost near impossible to get a late fee. All you have to do is call, go online, or go to your library and request a renewal; they are always willing to help you, unless someone else is waiting on the book. My library even automatically renews your book. So as I said, you practically have to NOT turn in your book to get a fine.

And did you know that you can not only volunteer at your local library but that you can help with fundraising efforts by becoming a member of your local Friends of Library? The Friends of Library funds are used to help promote and fund library and community programs. In fact, I recently read that some libraries are now checking out laptops, tablets, I – pads, and even hot spots! This is a great resource!

The library is a great place for memories and fun. Just last summer I took my niece and cousin to the library to participate in a program about wild life in Texas. It was interactive and very fun. I, myself, have a ton of memories of the library. Joining the library’s summer reading program was something that I looked forward to every summer. My grandmother would happily drive me on Sundays and allow me to spend as much time as I wanted perusing the books. I was often a top reader in the program because at the time I would check out like 15 or more books and speed through them (like I do now, lol). Summers are nostalgic for me and they are also the catalyst for reviving and rejuvenating my reading passion every year. So as an adult I still enter the summer reading program(yes, there is one for adults)!

Check out these cool prizes that I was awarded for being an participant in my local library’s Summer Reading Program. I had to log my reading and activities completed and then go pick up my prizes.

Libraries are definitely jewels. I said all of this to say don’t forget about your local library! The next time I go, I am going to introduce myself to the librarian. They are pillars of the community.

Let’s Chat: Do you use your local library? Shout them out and tell us about some of the cool programs they offer. If you don’t, go visit your local library and share your thoughts below!

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