Beyond Books: 20 Things We Love About the Library
There are so many reasons to visit the library! Besides the obvious books and other media that can be checked out for free, there’s so much more that libraries offer.
And, there are so many libraries to visit! In fact, there are 410 libraries across the state – at least one branch in every Georgia county.
“Libraries are really changing with the times,” says State Librarian for the Georgia Public Library Service, Julie Walker. “We have a digital platform called eRead Kids that has 45,000 titles for young readers from PreK to 4th grade. Our Galileo databases offer so many free services. There’s Mango for language learning, including the newest addition American Sign Language. In metro Atlanta, many branches have kitchens for cooking programs and maker spaces with 3D printers, sewing machines and podcast studios.”
The Fulton County Library System has access to thousands of audio and ebooks, as well as learning apps through their Digital Library. “You can also checkout a laptop through our Chromebook checkout program,” says PR/Marketing Director Claudia Strange. “We have programs happening every day of the week at a library branch near you! Whether it’s story time, yoga classes, ESL or GED classes, painting and other art classes, or author visits, there is always something to do at the library!”
If it has been a while since you have been to the library, stop by a branch near you in September (it’s Library Sign Up Month) and get the full experience.
Table of Contents
1
Ebooks – Many readers have chosen their E-readers over paper books. To save money, check out the local library ebook catalog (which you can do online). Libraries use apps like OverDrive, Libby and Hoopla to make books available instantly.
2
Audio Books –Audio books are also available through OverDrive, Libby and Hoopla or as CD sets to be checked out. Children’s versions at the library usually come with a matching paper book as a great reading aid. “If anyone in your family has a disability, such as not being able to hold a book or visual impairment, you can request talking books that can be downloaded and sent to you in the mail,” says Walker. “It’s a free service and really helps promote literacy for all.”
3
Music – Library collections include a large variety of music on CDs and many have vinyl records. Emusic is also available through apps like Freegal or Hoopla. It’s a great way to extend your own music library. Some branches have instruments such as ukuleles that you can check out.
4
Videos – Watch the latest release or binge-watch TV shows you have missed. Videos are available for all ages and genres. Check out free DVDs or Blu-rays or watch them via online access through free apps like Hoopla or Kanopy.
5
Story Time – Most libraries offer story time in their children’s section. Kids can listen to the story while you browse the adult section or parents can sit in, too. Often, the library arranges a craft to go along with the story.
6
Clubs – Several clubs meet through the library. Some clubs for adults found at my local branch include a knitting club, Scrabble club, English as a second language conversation groups and four different book clubs for a variety of genres and meeting times.
7
Speakers – The library schedules speakers several times a month on many subjects. Recent speakers at my local library included super couponers, historians, tax advisors and small business consultants.
8
Computers – Not only do libraries offer free Wi-Fi for your own devices, they also have computers and printers that you can use onsite. Most branches do charge a small fee per sheet for printing so bring along some pocket change. Many Georgia libraries have hot spots and computers to check out if you prefer to have some of this equipment at home.
9
Other Media – Your local library might also have photo scanners, equipment to convert VHS to digital, 3-D scanners and large format printers. Check with the library about any fees associated with use or to reserve space during busy times.
10
Classes – Need to brush up on your computer skills? Check with your local library for free seminars and classes on Microsoft Office, analog converting software or graphics software. While it may not be enough to make you an expert, it will help you to get your feet wet.
11
Genealogy and Local History – You can research various historical databases, newspapers, archives, military records and more. Libraries often carry memberships to websites like Ancestry.com, Fold 3 or Heritage Quest.
12
Online Resources – Online memberships at the library are not limited to history. Ask your librarian about databases for business, legal, career assistance, medical, investments or to learn a language through Rosetta Stone.
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Interlibrary Loans – If you can’t find it at your library, you can borrow it from another branch through interlibrary loans. You can request books, DVDs, CDs, magazines or journals on microfilm. It’s a great resource for research not available online.
14
Business Services – Libraries offer services to help you locate a job, freshen up your resume, and brush up on your computer, speaking or writing skills. They can even help you to start your own business.
15
Experience Passes – When you want to explore the attractions Atlanta has to offer but are looking for free or reduced admission, check out Experience Passes. Your family can check out Zoo Atlanta passes once per year and passes to Alliance Theatre, Atlanta History Center, Center for Puppetry Arts, Chattahoochee Nature Center, Michael C. Carlos Museum at Emory, State Parks & Historic Sites, and more!
16
A Place for the Teens – Libraries are one of the many places competing for teens’ attention. Libraries offer designated spaces for socializing, homework assistance, teen book clubs, writing contests, movie nights, teen clubs like Anime, ACT/SAT prep and video game loans.
17
Homeschool Sources – With more than 3 million homeschooled kids in the U.S. alone, libraries have stepped up to meet their needs. Ask your local library about library events for homeschoolers like daytime speakers, workshops, writing classes, book clubs or exhibits.
Gwinnett County Public Library
18
Programs Just for Kids – In addition to story time, libraries offer crafts, author celebrations like Dr. Seuss’ birthday, puppet shows and more. Kids also have a designated space with lower shelves and comfy spaces to sit. Computer games in the children’s section offer help with grammar, spelling, and math or just for fun. These are year-round ways to keep your kids engaged with literacy and learning.
19
Book and DVD Sales – Friends of the Library sales allow libraries to cull their collection of multiple copies or slow-moving materials. Prices are usually a dollar or two and go to purchase new books and media.
20
Workspaces – People often come to the library to get away from the distractions of a home office, work with a tutor or work on group projects. Private rooms are available for small groups or larger community meetings.
– Pam Molnar
