Check it Out: Public Libraries

I know many of you will find this tip a bit too obvious, but I think it is worth explicitly stating: our local public libraries are a tremendous resource for free information and entertainment. Here are some of the fantastic resources:

• Books – Obviously. Getting into the habit of searching for books at the library before running to the bookstore or Amazon can save big bucks if you are a bookworm like me. The major area library systems have web sites where you can search for materials at your leisure and even reserve books on-line. This makes for easy shopping. Make a list of holds on-line (even if they are not available at your local branch, they will be transferred there) then you can run in and pick up a stack of reading without even stepping into the stacks.

• Reciprocity – Most jurisdictions in the DC area have reciprocity, meaning you can get a library card and check out books from other area library systems.

• Inter-library Loan – If local jurisdictions do not have the book or item you are looking for many jurisdictions participate in Inter-library Loan where items can be borrowed from many other library systems across the country.

• Magazines – I love to read magazines, but had the newsstand prices. Many magazines are available from the local libraries and issue, except the most current, can be checked out. Plus when you are done reading them, they go back to the library and you don't have all of those coffee table stacks!

• Movies – Why pay Blockbuster when many local libraries have movies you can borrow? Collections very from library to library and system to system, but classics and foreign films are often good bets.

• CDs – We make very good use of the kids collection of music CDs from the Montgomery County libraries. My son loves bringing home new music each week and he can try out new ones before we invest in buying them.

• Books on Tape – Great for those long vacation trips or long commutes.

• Grandparent Bags – I know Noyes Library for Children in Kensington has these and I have seen them at the Tysons-Pimmet library as well. They are great for when young children come for a visit. They are bags stuffed with books (and sometimes other items) that all relate to a theme like dinosaurs or trucks. It makes it easy for relatives to have a stash of entertainment on hand for little visitors.

• Access to newspapers, journals and magazines on-line – Don't overlook the power of your library card for access to archives you would otherwise have to pay for such as the Washington Post. With your card number you can access many databases from the comfort of your couch. (Though one great resource, Washington Consumer Checkbook, is not on-line, you can search back issues at the library itself. Consumer Reports is available on-line.)

• Book sales – Though you might have to part with a little cash, some of the Friends of the Library book sales have a great selection of books for dirt cheap prices. Fairfax County sales were always a favorite of mine when I lived in Virginia. Though be sure to go early and have at least an idea of your most desirable categories. People move quickly and grab up bargains very fast. But be sure to linger a while after the initial frenzy. Many times people grab everything they can and then put back what they don't want after they have a chance to look through their pile.

• Lectures, Story Times and Other Activities – Local libraries offer a whole host of lectures and activities for both adults and children. They are definitely worth checking out.

• Summer Reading Clubs – Montgomery County is offering Summer Reading Clubs for both children and adults this year. Kids earn prizes that can include a free book from Barnes and Noble. Adults have a chance to $25 bookstore gift certificate. Check out your own library's program.

If others out there have great tips and ideas for using the local libraries, please share!