How to Save Money Using a Public Library

Most communities have a public library that's funded by tax dollars. Individuals can save hundreds of dollars by making use of the library's free services. Here's how to save at the library.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• library card (free)
• transportation to library

1. Quit subscribing to magazines and start reading them at the library. The savings is $10 to $30 per annual subscription.
2. Take children to free library programs like story times and summer reading programs. Make regular excursions to the library to get new books. It's a fun outing at no cost.
3. Skip buying the latest $35 bestseller. Get it at the library. If it isn't on the new book shelf when you visit, put your name on the waiting list.
   If you want to stock in some books for a home library, check the library's bookstore or book sale cart. Often those books are real bargains at 25 cents to $1.
4. Instead of hiring a tutor, take your child to the library's homework help center. If a library doesn't have a homework help center, the reference librarian can find materials that will help your child with their science project or school report.
5. Check on free programs for adults and families at the library. Some provide music performances, lectures, classes to learn a language, and other enrichment.
6. Besides loaning books, many libraries have movies and music for borrowing. Cut back on renting videos or subscribing to premium cable channels.
7. Use the library's computer services. They subscribe to databases that are not available free on the internet.

Tips & Warnings

• Mark the due date on a calendar to avoid overdue fines.
• Keep the borrowed books in one spot so none are lost.