Unexpected Things You Can Get for Free at the Library

September is “Library Card Sign-up Month,” which coincides perfectly with the start of a new season and school year. Who wouldn’t want access to free books, music and movies every week of the year? However, since the advent of the internet, communities have grown less and less dependent on their local library branches for books and other goods these public institutions have long provided.

There are over 8 million books in rotation through the Chicago Public Library alone. Why not contact your public library to find out what’s available to you and your family? Or, ask about specific items you’d like to check out. You might be surprised at what you find.

Common Perks and Benefits Available at Local Libraries Across the Midwest

Getting a library card for every member in the family used to be a given. But Americans are marketed to so much that they sometimes lose sight of all the things they can access free of charge.

Libraries have always been spaces to check out your favorite book series – as long as you return it! – but in recent decades they’ve grown to encompass much more than paper products. At many libraries, you can expect to access at least some of the these valuables without paying a cent:

• Computer training
• Job skill training
• Study rooms
• Computers and other devices
• Kids’ crafts workshops
• Volunteer opportunities
• Passes to local museums

For example, gadgets and devices available for loan at the Skokie Public LIbrary include:

• Cameras such as GoPros
• Microphones and tripods
• MP3 recorders
• Digital converters for video equipment
• Studio space for teen projects

At the Madison Public Library you can find:

• Art workshops
• Computer training
• Spanish Language Book Fair
• Events for seniors
• Free memory tests
• Meditation classes
• Tickets to local nature events

Online Resources

Each library is different! You’ll need to contact your own to find out what they keep on hand, how check outs and loans work, and whether that new bestseller you’ve been wanting to read is available at your local branch.

One thing you’re sure to find is that online resources have improved greatly over the years. During the pandemic, libraries improved their websites in order to make audio books (in the form of MP3s as well as CDs) and online books more broadly available.

Free Kid-Friendly Family Events

Bigger areas are likely to attract famous authors, public figures and academics for events throughout the year. But most libraries hold some type of celebration for holidays, activities such as book readings for children, and other events to commemorate special events.

Next time you want to escape the summer heat or the winter frost, duck into your local library, where your child can be entertained for free for hours.

Other Opportunities Through the American Library Association (ALA)

The American Library Association (ALA) is all about helping others learn, experience, develop skills and broaden their minds. Here are a few examples of the kinds of things the ALA offers:

1. Book suggestions and discussion questions for your book group
2. Professional development opportunities in the form of webcasts, videos, webinars and online discussion forums
3. Online education on everything from artificial intelligence to teaching methods

Some of their offerings are geared toward improving the libraries themselves. But if you see something you like that isn’t offered at your nearby branch, speak to a librarian near you. Hearing input from the public is a great way to make sure resources are being distributed to the places that need them the most!

Use Smart Financial CCEA Services

CCEA Currency Exchanges also like to support local communities, only by offering an array of convenient financial and auto-related services. Like the library, there are too many to list on this page. You’ll have to come by and take a look yourself!

Check out CCEA online for specifics on our services. Find a location near you to take advantage of them soon!