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Do you feel like you’re missing out on all the potential benefits of your local library? You might be surprised to learn that libraries offer far more than just books. Fact is, they are a goldmine for resources and services that extend beyond the traditional book lending! This blog post will delve into those unusual, often overlooked services libraries offer – from streaming media to unique lending items.
Ready to unearth hidden treasures at your local library?.
Key Takeaways
- Libraries offer more than just books – they provide access to digital media and streaming services such as e-books, audiobooks, music streaming platforms, and TV and movie streaming options.
- Unique lending services at libraries include borrowing musical instruments, tools, gadgets, arts and crafts supplies, as well as educational toys and games.
- Libraries also offer valuable resources for educational and career development, including tutoring services, skill-building programs, assistance with college and job preparation.
Digital Media and Streaming Services
Access a wide range of digital media and streaming services through your local library, including e-books, e-magazines, audiobooks, music streaming platforms, and even TV and movie streaming options.
E-books, e-magazines, and audiobooks
Libraries have adapted to the digital age by offering a wide variety of e-books, e-magazines, and audiobooks. Patrons can access these services from anywhere at any time, eliminating the need for physical library visits.
The extensive digital collection includes many popular titles across various genres. These resources are especially beneficial for those with tight schedules or mobility issues as they offer an opportunity to enjoy reading or listening to books without leaving home.
Furthermore, they provide an excellent platform for low-income families who may not afford to regularly purchase books and magazines. Notably, libraries also cater to different learning preferences by including audiobooks in their offerings; these audio versions are a great resource for auditory learners and people with visual impairments.
Music, TV, and movie streaming
Libraries aren’t just about books anymore. Did you know that many libraries offer music, TV, and movie streaming services? With your library card, you can access a vast selection of digital content right from the comfort of your own home.
Whether you’re in the mood for the latest chart-topping hits, binge-watching your favorite TV shows, or enjoying a movie night with family and friends, the library has you covered.
It’s like having a personal entertainment hub at your fingertips, all for free! So why pay for expensive subscriptions when you can take advantage of these hidden gems offered by your local library?.
Unique Lending Services
The library offers more than just books – you can also borrow musical instruments, tools, gadgets, arts and crafts supplies, as well as educational toys and games.
Musical instruments, tools, and gadgets
Libraries are not just about books and reading material. Many libraries offer a surprising range of services, including the lending of musical instruments, tools, and gadgets. This means that residents in low-income areas have access to resources they may not be able to afford otherwise.
Whether you want to learn how to play an instrument or try out a new DIY project, your local library can provide you with the tools you need. Don’t miss out on these hidden treasures – take advantage of the unexpected offerings from your library today!
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Arts and crafts supplies
Libraries offer more than just books and magazines. If you’re someone who loves arts and crafts or is looking for a creative outlet, you might be surprised to learn that many libraries provide access to a wide range of arts and crafts supplies.
From paints and brushes to sewing machines and knitting needles, these resources are available for borrowing at no cost with your library card. So whether you’re interested in trying out a new hobby or need supplies for a school project, don’t overlook the artistic offerings at your local library.
Educational toys and games
Libraries offer more than just books and movies; they also provide a variety of educational toys and games for children. These resources are especially beneficial for families in residential areas or low-income households who may not have the means to purchase these items themselves.
By borrowing educational toys and games from the library, children can engage in hands-on learning experiences that promote creativity, problem-solving skills, and social interaction.
From puzzles and building blocks to science kits and board games, libraries have a wide selection of options to suit different ages and interests. So next time you visit your local library, don’t forget to explore the exciting world of educational toys and games that await!
Access to Educational and Career Resources
Libraries offer valuable resources for educational and career development, including tutoring services, skill-building programs, and assistance with college and job preparation.
Tutoring and skill-building
Libraries offer more than just books. Many libraries provide tutoring and skill-building services to help individuals of all ages improve their academic performance and develop new skills.
Whether you need assistance with math, science, writing, or test preparation, libraries are a valuable resource for educational support. They often have trained tutors available to provide one-on-one instruction or group sessions.
Additionally, some libraries offer online resources and databases that can be accessed from home to further enhance learning opportunities. Take advantage of these hidden gems at your local library and unlock your full potential.
College and job prep assistance
Libraries offer valuable resources for college and job preparation to support individuals in residential areas or low-income families. These services include tutoring and skill-building programs to help improve academic performance and enhance job prospects.
Additionally, libraries may provide access to computer labs with internet connectivity, allowing users to search for employment opportunities, write resumes, and develop cover letters.
With these invaluable tools at your fingertips, libraries are dedicated to assisting you in achieving your educational and career goals.
Additional Benefits of Library Membership
Library membership also offers additional benefits such as free admission to local museums and zoos, access to meeting spaces for community gatherings or study groups, technology and electronics available for use within the library, passport services for convenient travel arrangements, and even publishing opportunities for aspiring authors.
Free admission to museums and zoos
Libraries offer more than just books and resources – they also provide free admission to museums and zoos! This benefit is especially valuable for people living in residential areas or low-income families who may not have the means to afford entry fees.
By presenting your library card, you can explore cultural institutions and wildlife parks without any additional cost. It’s a fantastic opportunity to expand your horizons, learn about history, art, and nature, and create lasting memories with loved ones.
Take advantage of this surprising perk by checking out the list of participating museums and zoos from your local library.
Meeting spaces
Libraries offer more than just books and resources; they also provide meeting spaces for various purposes. Whether you need a quiet place to study, collaborate on group projects, or hold community meetings, libraries have designated areas that can be reserved.
These meeting spaces are equipped with tables, chairs, and sometimes even audiovisual equipment to support presentations or workshops. Take advantage of this free resource in your community library to gather with friends, colleagues, or fellow residents for productive and engaging discussions.
Technology and electronics
Libraries offer more than just books and magazines. They also provide access to technology and electronics that you might not expect. Many libraries have computers with internet access that you can use for free.
This is especially helpful if you don’t have a computer or internet at home, as it allows you to search for jobs, do online research, or even connect with friends and family. Some libraries also loan out devices like tablets and e-readers, so you can read e-books or listen to audiobooks without having to buy them yourself.
These services can be a great help if you’re on a tight budget and need access to technology for work or school projects.
Passport services
Libraries offer a surprising service that you might not be aware of – passport services. Yes, that’s right! Some libraries provide assistance with passport applications and renewals.
This can be especially helpful for people who live in residential areas or low-income families, as it saves them the hassle of finding other resources to help with their travel documents.
So, if you’re planning on going on an international trip, don’t forget to check if your local library offers passport services. It’s just another way these incredible institutions are stepping up to serve their communities.
Did you know that the Library of Congress is the oldest federal cultural institution in the United States? It’s true! Libraries have a long history of providing valuable resources and services to the public, and offering passport services is just one example of how they continue to adapt and meet their patrons’ needs.
Publishing opportunities
Libraries offer more than just books and resources for reading. One surprising service that many people may not know about is the opportunity to publish their own work. Whether it’s writing a novel, creating a poetry collection, or even designing a children’s book, libraries provide resources and support to help individuals bring their creative projects to life.
With access to computers, printers, and helpful staff members who can assist with formatting and editing, libraries are an excellent resource for aspiring authors looking to self-publish their work.
In addition, some libraries even offer workshops and events on topics like self-publishing and marketing your book. So if you have a story to share or a passion project you’ve been dreaming of publishing, don’t overlook the publishing opportunities available at your local library.
Conclusion
Discover the hidden gems within your local library by exploring the surprising services they offer. From digital media and unique lending services to access to educational and career resources, libraries provide a wealth of resources that you may not be aware of.
Don’t miss out on these unexpected benefits and make the most of your library membership today!
FAQs
1. What are some surprising services I can uncover at my local library?
Beyond basic library services, you’ll find unusual checkouts like American Girl dolls, TV streaming subscriptions, and eBooks which you didn’t know existed!
2. How can I discover hidden library services through my library card?
Just by delving into the resources available with your membership, you’re bound to unearth hidden treasures such as eMagazines and little-known provisions only accessible to cardholders.
3. Do libraries offer more than just book-related resources?
Yes! Libraries provide a variety of unexpected conveniences such as free stuff that extends beyond books or reading materials. Explore these unknown amenities using your membership.
4. What’s special about National Library Week?
National Library Week is an exciting time where libraries often unveil lesser-known offerings or highlight interesting facts about their services that patrons may have overlooked.
5: Can overdue books lead to discovering new features of the library ?
Returning overdue books might shed light on services you weren’t aware of before; it’s another way of experiencing unexpected benefits from your local community library!
6: Are there any digital resources provided by libraries?
Certainly! Libraries today are modernized and offer a wide range of electronic subscriptions including e-books, emagazines even TV streaming options for their members.
Source URLs
https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/578801/library-facts
https://www.loc.gov/about/fascinating-facts/
https://www.buzzfeed.com/alanamohamed/17-things-librarians-want-you-to-know-about-libraries