When's the last time you went to your public library?
Dude. That's too long.
Now, granted, I live in a swinging metropolis and our public library system isn't too shabby, but no matter where you live, supporting your public library is one of the best things you can do for your brain, your wallet and your community.
My nearest library is the Kimball branch and it's kinda like your grandma's basement. It's not pretty or bright or architectually interesting like some branches, but it's got books and stuff!
They have the usual on tap - books, audio books, DVDs, free wifi - but, once you get your library card, you can also get a TON of stuff online via their downloadable media site! Ebooks, audio books, mp3s, video.
Did I mention the free downloads of mp3s and audio books? In mere minutes you could be listening to 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Ender's Game or The Art of War...or jamming to Mavis Staples, Schubert or Skinny Puppy.
Most branches have book clubs and many offer additional educational programming - such as this program teaching kids about being smart with money.
But even in spots like Elkton, Maryland or Cocoa, Florida...your local public library is worth checking out, yo!
6 comments:
It's been a long time since I've gone to the library, but I'm grateful it's there!
Get this--I heard from a library employee today that they're cutting hours here in Brevard County. AND days! WTF?? Education's getting screwed here, now the libraries. Florida's sure gonna regret it...
You know, I meant to make a point (and got distracted at work) that many libraries across the country are facing cut-backs in hours and resources.
Mainly because not enough people 1) use their libraries or 2) support their libraries.
So the local governments are cutting funding...which often times means, they also lose state funds as well.
One of my personal goals for 2009 is to get back to doing more volunteer work and spending some time shelving books is one of the options I'm considering.
I had a few work-study jobs at college and one of my favorites was working at the library.
In this age of Kindles and Ipods, there is something about the smell and feel of a hardcover books that still makes me weak in the knees.
The thought of public libraries across the country slowing down and/shutting down make me weak in the knees in a completely different way.
Fuzzy is obsessed with the ordering option at the library, too. We live RIGHT next to one, so he orders books, they are delivered there, and he goes and picks them up! Brilliant!
E - Yes. It is THE BEST! Woot!
Yeah, there's nothing like a book in your hands. Nothing. I hope it never comes to us having to read everything off of a computer screen!!!
I'd use the library more but sometimes I have a hard time finishing the books on time. Then I have to renew, renew, renew, and I end up paying late fees or having to make a special trip. Maybe I can think of some way to support the library...
Rebar - Thank you for the link to the free downloads! I have been to the library a lot lately, but I have only recently begun exploring the CPL site - this is so great!
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