Love Libraries guide to free library resources 17 Apr 07
Your gateway to saving money
Libraries offer a world of free resources – free membership, books, newspapers, magazines, internet access, online reference materials, advice and guidance, there is something for everyone.
With the wealth of free services on offer, Money Saving Expert and journalist Martin Lewis says that “libraries are an amazing MoneySaving resource, and if you haven't been in for a while, it's worth popping in for 10 minutes.”
In support of Martin Lewis’ comments, here are some of the ways libraries can help you to make cutbacks:
Millions of books and reading resources
Borrowing books from your local library, rather than purchasing, can have a significant impact on your saving. Public libraries offer free access to a vast range of reading resources, from bestselling novels to the classics, magazines, national and local newspapers, audio books and large print books. You can choose from a wealth of reading genre for all ages – romance, action, mystery, thriller, sci-fi, horror, fantasy, manga, travel and self-help, and if the title you are looking for is unavailable, a member of staff will be happy to reserve a copy, or order in a new title for you. Or if you’re unsure what to choose, ask the staff to recommend one of their favourite reads. Borrowing books also eradicates the problem of limited storage space, whether at home, school, university or work.
High speed internet and computer access
If you don’t have internet access at home, and prefer to avoid paying internet café charges, there are over 20,000 computer terminals in public libraries, offering free access to computer software packages and high-speed, reliable internet connections. Many libraries offer free computer training classes, and knowledgeable staff are always on hand to answer any questions.
Reading groups
If you are looking for a free and alternative way to spend your time, then why not join a reading group. This is a fantastic way of meeting with others who share your love of reading. Libraries support over 4,500 reading groups for children, young people, adults and the visually impaired. To find your nearest reading group visit www.readinggroups.peoplesnetwork.gov.uk
If you would prefer to engage with readers online, visit the Reader2Reader section of the People’s Network website, where you can join a free online discussion forum on the nominated ‘book of the month’, review your favourite book, find out what’s hot on others’ reading lists, or suggest a book to bin!
Activities and events
Throughout the year, libraries offer regular events and activities for all ages, from author visits to poetry workshops.
If you are a parent or carer, young children can enjoy storytelling or Rhyme Time sessions, introducing them to nursery rhymes and songs, and helping to develop early language skills.
The Summer Reading Challenge, for children aged 4 -11, takes place in libraries during the summer holidays free of charge. This year’s ‘Big Wild Read’ theme aims to educate children in how they can make a positive difference to their environment. Contact your local library to find out if they are taking part in this year’s challenge.
You can also find out about events in your local area, by looking at the library notice board.
Advice and guidance
Whether you are seeking careers advice, guidance on learning and training opportunities, looking for inspiration on places to go with friends or family, or even advice on how to save money, expert staff can provide you with free and impartial information.
Online reference materials
Many libraries offer a wealth of free online resources, which can be accessed via your local library website 24 hours per day, whether at home, school or work. The world famous resources include: Oxford English Dictionary (OED), Oxford Dictionary of National Biography (ODNB), Oxford Reference Online, Grove Music Online, and Grove Art Online; providing a wealth of trusted information.
Online ‘Enquire’ Service
Enquire is a real time email enquiry service available at www.peoplesnetwork.gov.uk, where you can post any question, any time to a trained member of library staff. So if you have questions about family history, homework, studies, benefit entitlements, or anything else, ‘Enquire’ will have the answer.
Media resources
If you enjoy listening to pop, rock, classical, country, opera or other music genre, many libraries stock a wide range of CDs, which you can borrow for a small charge. If you are part of a band or orchestra, sets of music scores and orchestral parts may also be available for loan. For film lovers, you can browse DVD and Video collections of new releases and classics for a small fee. For video game fanatics, playstation, X-box and CD Rom games may be available for hire, and the charge will be minimal in comparison to the cost of buying!
These are just some of the ways public libraries can help you to save money, there are of course many more! We would love to hear about your experiences, so please join our discussion on the ‘Have Your Say’ section of this website.
To hear further money saving tips from the money saving expert Martin Lewis, visit www.moneysavingexpert.com.
