Ten Reasons to Visit Your Local Public Library

Written by Julia Giantomasi
Published on September 14, 2023

We recently wrapped up our statewide digital marketing campaign, “Life Happens @ Your Library.” This campaign was created because most people know that libraries are the place you visit to borrow books, but not everyone knows what libraries have to offer beyond books. We hope that you’ve been sharing the graphics and videos produced in that campaign, but if the written word is more your style, we’ve outlined below ten reasons to visit the library that you can highlight when promoting your public library to the surrounding community. In celebration of it being Library Card Sign-up Month, there’s no better time to share all of the benefits your library has to offer for free to library cardholders.

10. Wi-Fi and Tech

In areas where internet access is not equitable, your local public library offers free Wi-Fi and computers available for patron use. Many public libraries also have iPads and laptops for use onsite or to be checked out with your library card.

9. Events

Lots of local libraries plan a number of events each month. These events could include informational presentations on topics like finance and health, or they could be social events. Sometimes libraries coordinate visits or book signings with local authors. Often the library will have a regular book club, writing group, and crafting clubs for adults and children. Even if a library doesn’t have something planned, they typically have meeting spaces or rooms that can be reserved for meetings or groups of your own. Some libraries even have recording studios for musicians or podcasters. Check your local library’s event calendar to see what they have planned each month and what type of common spaces can be utilized.

8. Makerspaces

Makerspaces are increasingly popular in libraries and can be places where people learn to use technology and explore their creativity. The average makerspace is an area that has computers, 3-D printers, audio and video capture and editing tools, and traditional arts and crafts supplies. Many makerspaces have accessible resources such as tactile cards, sound puzzles, or seeing eye maps. Makerspaces encourage people to interact and create. They are awesome resources for entrepreneurs as well, giving free access to various types of machines, tools and equipment.

7. Borrowing A Variety of Things

As most people know, your library is full of books (or eBooks) of all genres and reading levels to borrow. What you might not be aware of are all of the unique items other than books that can be borrowed from the library. Most libraries have movies, music, magazines, and newspapers to be borrowed. Beyond that, your library could have seeds, gardening tools, cake pans, museum passes, board games, puzzles, toys, outdoor games, tools, musical instruments, telescopes, colorblind glasses, video production equipment, podcasting equipment, crocheting or knitting kits, and so much more. All you need is a library card and to inquire within your local public library to find out about what they have!

6. Job Search Assistance

Community members who are just starting out in their career or looking for a career change can use the public library’s databases to take compatibility or skill tests to find which career path suits them best. Then they can find job openings in their area with reference librarian support on how to perform an effective search. Assistance may also be available for resume writing, mock interviews, and networking skills. Need to improve your tech skills? Check with your local public library to find out how they can help you land that job!

5. Small Business Resources

Looking to strike out on your own and start a business? Already have a business, but you need help growing it? Public libraries can help level the playing field for entrepreneurs and small business owners who might not be able to afford the costly resources that large corporations readily have access to. State-funded electronic resources allow small business owners to access detailed information about consumers, industries and other businesses to conduct market research. These resources can also help you build your prospect lists, and research your competitors. Find readily available sample business plans, tax deduction and legal information for employers, as well as videos on business topics of interest. Reference librarians can offer additional support and some libraries are even patent and trademark resource centers for entrepreneurs. Check with your local public library to find out what business resources they offer.

4. Homework Help and Tutoring

Some libraries offer one-on-one tutoring for homework that can be accomplished in person or virtually. Get extra help with computer skills, SAT prep, and ESL assistance at the library.  If your library doesn’t have a designated tutor available, statewide databases can be utilized for SAT prep or topic-specific assistance. Explore www.jerseyclicks.org to see what resources are available to residents of New Jersey.

3. Social Work

More and more public libraries are hiring social workers that are available onsite by appointment or during designated time slots. Social workers are able to provide individualized client consultations for questions that require subject expertise. Patrons can turn to social workers for guidance on food stamps, health benefits, government subsidized internet access, and re-entry services after incarceration. Social workers can alleviate the stress that vulnerable populations face when dealing with bureaucratic hurdles and offer both compassion as well as specialized knowledge on these topics. Check with your local public library to find out if a social worker is available to assist you.

2. Digital Literacy

Many libraries have literacy labs and provide training and credentialing for adult residents. Online programs like Northstar Digital Literacy are available for public use as well as one-on-one support with library staff. Adults can ask specific questions or visit on a more regular basis to increase their comfort with using technology or the internet. Digital literacy areas covered by Northstar Digital Literacy include: Basic Computer Skills, Internet Basics, Using Email, Windows OS, Mac OS, Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint, Google Docs, Social Media, Career Search Skills, Accessing Telehealth Appointments, and Supporting K-12 Distance Learning.

1. Health Resources

The pandemic put a spotlight on inequities in the healthcare system, however libraries have always been on the front lines providing a wide range of support to their communities. Some libraries have made iPads available for patrons to borrow, that are fully loaded with apps for health resources and telehealth appointments. Some libraries have staff who are trained in administering and distributing Naloxone, the drug used to reverse an opioid overdose, should an incident occur onsite. Public libraries may have free kits including hand warmers and blankets for community members who don’t have a warm shelter. Others have health and wellness stations available with a variety of free items such as first aid kits, socks, rain ponchos, chapstick, and feminine products. And as always, library staff can provide further support in scheduling appointments or resources on getting covered through NJ’s official health insurance marketplace.