This last week was National Library Week, and in honor of that, this post is dedicated to those paradises for frugal people - libraries. A lot of people don't make use of libraries at all, which is pretty sad for their wallets, but even those of us who do probably aren't getting the most out of our library experience. Here's Captain Cheap's advice to maximizing the (cheap and awesome) benefits of libraries.
* First,
get as many library cards as you can for free. Most people think they're only eligible for a card at one library only. They might be true, but it's worth checking into. Ask your local community college and universities if they offer free community cards. Also, you might be eligible for library cards for other cities if you work or volunteer there. I just learned, for instance, that I'm eligible for a library card for the next town over because I volunteer for a nonprofit in their city limits that has a partnership with the library for all its volunteers.
>>For the record, I currently hold four valid library cards, and this one will be my fifth. While I know that's a little extreme, heck, the more the merrier, right?
* Second,
don't not go to libraries just because you're not a big book reader. There are a ton of other things to be had at libraries that will save you money, like:
- DVDs that you can check out,
- CDs that you can check out,
- Audio books you can check out,
- Bulletin boards that advertise local (often free/cheap) events,
- Copies of local publications that might have coupons for nearby restaurants, services, etc
Some public libraries also have video games, board games, and puzzles for checkout.
* Third,
see what events your library offers. These are often free, and great ways to meet new people. Keep an eye out for:
- Book clubs
- Readings by local authors
- Classes around technology/books
- Movie showings
- Used book sales
* Fourth, if your local library branch doesn't have a book you want when you go to visit, don't be afraid to request it from another branch or through interlibrary loan or to put it on hold.
You're very rarely limited to what's on the shelves. Also, many libraries are starting to offer e-books for checkout, so ask your local librarian about that.
* Fifth, and I'm horrible about this, but
avoid late fees by remembering to renew your stuff... most libraries let you do this online OR over the phone.
* Finally, I would suggest making one day every week or two a library day, like say, Saturday mornings or a day during the week when you pass by on your way to work/school. If nothing else, just go in and see what's new! You might be surprised at how much money your library could save you when you add up the savings from movie rentals, book purchases, and fun things to do on the cheap!
