photo credit: Mosman Library

The average American family spends over $100 a year on books, and on magazine and newspaper subscriptions.  Instead of buying these things that pile up – often unread – get them from your local library.  The best thing about your local library – it’s free!

You know your library has books.  But libraries are filled with lots of other useful things that you might not even be aware of.  Here is a list of some of them:

E-books – An increasing number of libraries are offering these.

Books on tape or CD – This great for the person with a long commute.  Check out a book on tape and listen to a novel or learn something new. 

CDs – Want to hear some of your favorite songs?  No need to buy the CD. 

Magazines and newspapers – Why waste your money on subscriptions?  Plus thing about all the paper that is wasted printing these.

Movies/TV Shows – My local library has a ton of movies.  They also have a lot of TV Shows on DVD.  I check them out to catch up on episodes that I missed.  

Computers – Most libraries have computers that you can use to create documents, go on the internet, check your email, etc.

Free WiFi – Most library have free WiFi.  You can bring your laptop or ipad and spend the day surfing the net.

Educational Classes – Many libraries offer educational classes.  Many local businesses offer free seminars at the library in exchange for advertising. I recently took free Jazzercise classes at my local library.

Kids Activities – The library is a fabulous place to take your kids.   My local library has lots of free programs for kids of all ages.  If your local library has free programs available, take advantage of it and pick up a few books while you’re there. 

What about you? Do you use the library to save money?