Libraries change Lives

Game changer you guys. Game changer. Utilize your library. If you aren’t a regular at your local library, you are missing out. Having an online account with my library where I can order things and put things on hold has been fantastic. Literally I can search for books by genre, by things my kids are interested in, or just search what’s new. I place a hold on the item I want, and as soon as it’s ready, I get an email. I can then use the DRIVE THROUGH yes, drive through to pick up my items.

We haven’t used redbox, we’ve been checking out old favorites and waiting patiently for our turn to view new movies for FREE! Recent examples  have been Spider-Man into the universe, Ralph breaks the Internet, and classics like Sound of Music and Andre. Here’s a tip-I literally check the “new movies” section every day or two. Even then, by the time I place a hold I’m usually 150th-300th or so in line. But our local branches are all connected and they have several copies so it usually moves fairly quickly. 

I’ve loved being able to look up science books and get several and then keep the ones my kids like for longer, and just return the ones that weren’t quite the right fit. It also is kind of helping them feel like a “surprise” is waiting for them at home. It’s also helping curb my habit of picking up treats or trinkets for them while I’m out and about because I’ve thought about them, searched for something, found it and brought it home, it helps curb my gift giving habit. Instead of buying them something, I’m pouring energy into finding something I know they will love for free from the library! 

There are also countless event and program opportunities through the library. There are classes and seminars on how to learn to do something, homework help, lego groups, storytimes for toddlers and lets not forget the summer reading program that will be coming up soon where your kids  earn free books and a t-shirt! They also have an adult summer reading program now!!!! 

Our library also has a resource where you can live stream some movies and audio books! What???? Yes! Move over Netflix. 

I typically have a revolving relationship with the library and as a result have around 15-30 items checked out at all times usually with different due dates, so here’s how I keep track of it all:

There’s a basket dedicated to library materials in my living room. Everything goes in there as soon as we get home. When we are finished reading a particular book or we’ve watched the movie, it goes into a specific bag that hangs in the front coat closet ready for me to grab whenever I’m going back to the library to pick up more holds. I usually stop one way or the other once a week at the library for returns or to get more items or both. 

I also love that I get an email reminding me when items are due back. I get an email 3 days before items are due. This helps me remember to either make sure to read or watch the item OR to get online and renew it. 

This system has worked pretty well for us so far. Everybody knows everything from the library stays in the living room and we really pay minimal fines and have never lost a library book because of this. (Somebody reach over and knock on your wood desk right now for me) 

Bottom line-for this penny pinching family-the Library has been a lifeline. We LOVE that we have such a fantastic reaource that literally costs us nothing yet makes us feel so spoiled! What do YOU love about the Library????