11 Things You Didn't Know You Could Get At The Library

by N/A, 10 years ago | 1 min read

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Libraries are a great and underutilized resource. Not only do they contain treasures in the form of books, but your library card might also give you access to these useful things.

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1. Art

Libraries Aurora, Il, Ann Arbor, Minnesota,and Braddock, PA, has original pieces of art and prints that you can display in your home.

2. People

Librarians are great resources at all libraries, but some libraries take it a step further by hosting "human library" programs. They bring in human "books" who will teach others about different cultures or life experiences.

3. Puppies

General Montgomery is a certified therapy dog owned by one of the librarians at Yale's Lillian Goldman Law Library is available for 30-minute petting sessions.

4. Musical Instruments

The Ann Arbor Library has a vast array of musical instruments available for rental including instruments that are a little unusual like theremins and voice transformers.

5. A Green Screen

The digital media lab in the Skokie, Il library has computers with video editing software, microphones, and a green screen.

6. Seeds

Pima County Public Library in Arizona has seeds available for patrons so they can grow a variety of flowers, herbs and vegetables. Since they can't return the seeds, they're encouraged to donate seeds later on.

7. Internet

The Chicago and New York Public Libraries rent out mobile hotspots so you can have internet at home or on the go. Most other libraries have computer labs with internet access that are free to use.

8. Fishing Poles

Blasco Library in Erie, PA rents out fishing poles and tackle boxes. The Chicago Public Library has a "Rods and Reads" program that also provides them for kids and adults.

9. Power Tools

The Oakland, Berkeley and Ann Arbor Public Libraries have an array of power tools that you might not own. You can find tools for carpentry, plumbing and electrical work as well as air quality meters and thermal leak detectors.

10. Museum Passes

Libraries in Chicago, Georgia, Connecticut, New York, Michigan and Massachusetts all off deals on passes to museums, state parks and other attractions.

11. Book Clubs

Libraries in Ann Arbor and Edwardsville, Il have book club kits available for check out. They contain multiple copies of the book, a DVD movie adaptation if one exists, discussion questions and tips for running a book club.