When most people think of the library they have an outdated version of how libraries used to be. For myself, I remember the card catalogs and research papers in a stuffy space. This is not how libraries are today; they have drastically changed yet still remained somewhat the same. I love my local library and couldn’t imagine my life without it!

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Libraries are not just all about books, there is so much more to a them. They are filled with knowledge and activities, it’s a little secret treasure that is free. Yes, books are a huge part of the library and what would we do without them. Instead of paying for your books on Amazon or purchasing them from the bookstore, you can save a lot of money borrowing the book. Most libraries even have an app that you can download to read eBooks online or listen to the books online, again all for free.  They have the latest books from your favorite author or magazines that you can borrow in addition to all of the classics.

There is a children’s section where books are separated to age-appropriate levels. There are coloring areas for children who may be too small to enjoy picking out a book yet. Some libraries also have craft events and story times blocked off for children to enjoy.

In the summertime, my local library has a reading program filled with incentives. The children and adults can sign up at the beginning of summer and you log how many minutes/hours that have been read and you get tickets to put into a box for different prizes. The prizes are very cool, too! There are different themes such as Thomas the Train, Monster High, Goosebumps, Visa gift cards, Wal Mart gift cards, art supplies, an iPad, a Nook and many other great incentives. This helps your children keep up the habit of reading during the summer break.

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Another bonus there is free Wi-Fi for everyone! If you need to use a computer, they are available and so is the option to print. Printing is a small price but awesome if you don’t have your own printer. The library is quiet so you will get a chance to slow down and enjoy this time. The world is always so busy and noisy it is a nice break to visit the library.

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There are sections to research local history or just history in general, places to put puzzles together, just sit and do your own crossword puzzle, read a newspaper or start a word search. If you are more into movies or television shows there is also a section where you can borrow these. The library also will be the place to find out about any events that are happening near you such as festivals, street fairs, and benefits. They can tell you what clubs meet and if there are any author readings or book reviews coming up. Sometimes businesses or community boards have meetings here and most of the time it is free to rent out space.

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geralt /Pixabay     https://pixabay.com/en/conference-team-office-1886023/

The people who work at the library are also very knowledgeable and kind. They are doing a job they love and are there to help you enjoy the resources that are available. Each library is different but with the way technology has advanced most libraries will have something for everyone. I love my local library and enjoy visiting there. If you haven’t been to one lately or even in years, look up your local library and pay them a visit. You may just be surprised at all of the treasures you will find.