Stop Paying For It: Unexpected Things You Can Get For Free From Libraries

Before paying for certain goods and services, check with your public library - they may be able to provide it for you for free. Modern libraries are much more than dusty shelves and librarians who ask for silence, says the publication Money Talks News.

Dee Culbertson, director of the public library in Madison, Ohio, notes that libraries are fast becoming cultural hubs with access to everything. Everything you can imagine is available here.

So, before spending money on a subscription or a one-time purchase, call your local library and ask if the item is available for free.

The following are examples of a variety of goods and services that you can get for free from most libraries in America.

1. Music streaming

Before paying (or continuing to pay) for a subscription to a music service like Spotify or Amazon Music Unlimited, find out if your local library offers free music streaming access.

For example, FreegalMusic is a music streaming service available through participating libraries in the US. Its catalog includes 15 million songs from over 40 music labels in over 000 countries.

Additionally, hoopla - a service that offers access to various types of free media - also has a music collection and is available in libraries.

2. Video streaming

For years, DVDs and Blu-ray discs have been available from local libraries in America. But you can even get free access to video streaming services with a library membership.

For example, if your library is partnered with the streaming service Kanopy, you can access thousands of free movies from the comfort of your home. Visit Kanopy website to see if your library participates in this program. Or ask your library if it offers access to any video streaming services.

hoopla is another option for watching movies and TV shows.

3. Electronic publications

Looking for a magazine, newspaper or book to read on your mobile device? Your reader card can give you access to them.

Find out if your library has access to these apps:

• Flipster - it is designed to read digital magazines;
• OverDrive - for electronic and audio books;
• hoopla - audiobooks and comics.

With these applications, you can usually download or otherwise read various publications for free for a certain period of time.

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Many libraries now also have electronic newspaper subscriptions. So, if you need online access, ask your local library what newspapers it subscribes to and if library card holders can access them online.

4. Online courses

LinkedIn Learning offers a free catalog of online courses for visitors to participating libraries. So, ask your library if they are partners with LinkedIn Learning or similar services.

5. Self-improvement classes

Find out what types of self-improvement classes and seminars are offered at your local library. You might be surprised to find that the library offers free budgeting, language lessons, and technology practice.

6. Entrance tickets for sightseeing

Public Library in Milton, Massachusetts offers free museum tickets and other attractions in Boston. Current options range from the Museum of Fine Arts and the Institute of Contemporary Art to the New England Aquarium and the New England Zoo.

You can also find free tickets to museums and other local attractions at other public libraries around the country. Visit your library's website or ask a librarian.

7. 3D printing

Some libraries become laboratories for creative individuals. The Madison Public Library, for example, offers XNUMXD printing and even laser engraving.

Many libraries have XNUMXD printers. They let you try out the technology or even print simple household items like a spoon or phone case at a discount.

If you want access to the latest technology but aren't ready to buy it yet, call your local library. See what's there.

8. Party Supplies

Throwing a party and need supplies to organize it? They can be borrowed from the library. Some libraries offer access to bakeware, fondue cups, spaghetti bowls, chocolate fountains, and even large coffee makers.

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These items are often too expensive to be purchased for a one-time event. But your library may have a supply of party items you can borrow.

9. Collaboration space

Free Wi-Fi in libraries, along with quiet workspaces, can provide you with a place where you can do your homework or even work on your business in peace. And you don't have to pay for it.

10. Meeting rooms

Looking for a meeting place? Some libraries will allow you to reserve conference rooms free of charge. Especially if you are a member of a non-profit or similar group. Contact your library if you are having trouble finding a meeting place for your organization.

11. Babysitting

The public library should not be seen as a substitute for kindergarten. However, if you are looking for something for your toddler or toddler, then look into after-school programs or clubs in libraries.