Local libraries often offer more than just books! Here are our favorite freebies we get from ours.
- Learn a Language: Anytime we have a road trip planned, we pick up a language learning CD. Although we're fluent in nothing but English we can say some basics in French, Russian and Spanish so far. Deutsch ist neben!
- Marvelous Movies: Why rent for one night when you can check it out for a week for free? You may not get the newest release but we've had a ball revisiting classics such as ET, Superman, Indiana Jones, tons of Disney flicks and, unfortunately, Jaws. Here are a few other ideas for free movies.
- Kindles and E-books: Our local library allows us to check out Kindles (there's a wait list which I get on a few weeks before we go on a trip) and has E-Books as well for those that already own portable media readers.
- Incentive Programs: Over the summer, the kids and I entered the summer reading program. At the end, we were given great goody bags that included free swimming at area pools, free food at Chick-Fil-A and free visits to the Children's museum.
- Classes: Keep an eye on your library's schedule of classes. You can get free, hands-on advice on gardening, couponing, nutrition and many other intriguing activities.
- Kids activities: Our library offers reading and arts and crafts once a week for kids 6 and under.
- Book sales: We go to Barnes and Nobles to browse; we hit the library to buy. About twice a year, our library has a book sale. I let my kids earn some extra money on chores a few weeks ahead of time and they have a ball sorting through the bargains.
- Free Attractions: Check with your librarian to see what community activities they may offer. Several libraries in NC offer passes to the zoo and free tickets to science and children museums.
What does your local library have to offer?
