Benefits of a Library Card | Library Card Benefits
For most, libraries call to mind rows upon rows of bookshelves, just waiting for a reader to pull a story out and enjoy. (The word does, after all, stem from the latin word “liber,” for book.)
But over the course of history, libraries have evolved into spaces offering so much more than simply the opportunity to borrow books, becoming centers that encourage and empower knowledge, creativity, inspiration, critical thinking, and more. And while we would be very content if these spaces offered “just” books, we are very grateful for the ways they go above and beyond to make as many resources and opportunities as widely accessible as possible!
Read on to learn more about all libraries have to offer—and then make sure to go sign up for a free library card, if you haven’t already, to utilize all their benefits.
A quick note: Library card benefits depend on funding at a local and federal level (the latter via grants, including from the Institute of Museum and Library Services). Getting and using your library card helps demonstrate that your local leaders should invest more in the library, and hopefully results in additional in-person and digital resources! And, of course, we can all continue to contact our representatives to let them know we need funding for these vital institutions—not just our own, but those especially in underserved communities.
More than just books: The surprising things you can borrow
Do a deep dive and you’re likely to uncover a niche or under-utilized resource from your library. After I moved back to my hometown, I wanted to learn more about the benefits of a library card with the San Francisco Public Library…and I was overwhelmed by how many cool and unique offerings they provide! From free museum tickets to vehicle passes for California state parks to fix-it clinics, there are so many opportunities for me to keep learning and exploring.
Libraries across the country also offer everything from art you can borrow to hang on your walls, to health care vending machines, to lawn-care equipment.
Of course, this is all in addition to more every-day resources, such as books, ebooks, music, streaming services, magazines, and much, much more.
A community hub: Connect, learn, and grow
Have you ever taken a close look at your library’s calendar? Or signed up for their email newsletter? Book clubs, author visits, lectures on sustainability, STEM classes for kids, ESL…there are so many events, meetings, and online resources taking place, just waiting for you to join.
Whether you are a young or seasoned reader, hoping to learn a new skill, or just want to explore and meet new people, there could be an event for you! And if you are a member or leader of a local club, consider utilizing your library’s meeting spaces. You’ll be supporting their work, and encouraging the rest of your organization to support the institution as well.
Supporting your community and local economy
Libraries are one of the few remaining completely public institutions in the United States. Immigrants, the unhoused, those fleeing natural disasters, and more all turn to these spaces for shelter and support during difficult times. And many librarians and library workers are working hard to ensure that they can keep providing vital services to these communities and beyond.
Everything from internet access to cooling spaces to narcan nasal spray to ESL classes to resume building lessons and more go a long way in helping not just individuals, but your wider community thrive.
Getting your library card: It’s easy and it’s free
How can you sign up for a library card? It’s easy, and it depends on your local library’s rules and regulations. The best way to learn more is to get in touch with a librarian, or visit your library’s website!
Some libraries allow patrons to sign up for their library card online (you may still have to go in-person to grab your physical card, however), and some only allow for in-person sign-ups. You’ll most likely be asked for your residential address, email, birthday, and other basic information.
If visiting in person is a barrier, get in touch with your library and see what they say! You can also consider signing up for a non-residential library card at one of the libraries across the country that are aiming to make books—particularly banned stories—more accessible. (Note, though, that sometimes you do have to pay for non-residential cards, as they aren’t receiving your tax-payer support.) Just do a quick online search for “non-residential library card” to see current information.
The best part? Once you have this library card, you’ve immediately expanded your access to incredible resources!
Libraries play an important role in our society, and we play an important role in making sure they can continue to offer free books, classes, community events, and beyond!
What’s your favorite resource to utilize from your library?
