Air conditioning during heat waves
Heater during cold seasons
More windows to peer out into the rain
All the reading material you want with no hassled store worker checking up on you to see if you’re purchasing something
Take your sweet time wandering around to vibe with the aesthetic
Tables and seats that don’t require a purchase
Free workshops (or really cheap ones or a small donation if you’re able)
(Some libraries have a Garden Room)
Comfortable nooks hidden in random spaces
Most libraries are part of a network with others, so there’s a good chance they’ll have what you’ll looking for and get it shipped out. Sometimes, you get waitlisted but better than dropping $400+ on Ebay
Printers and fax machines
That one person that has connections to everyone and everything
Access to various databases and subscriptions to your favorite magazines and newspapers
See last point because it needs to be reiterated because pay walls are awful for researchers, curious people, and those who have niche interests/passion projects
I mean it, libraries are amazing if you’re looking to get back into school, but you don’t have the time or resources, but you still want to get into the materials or learn new skills
And let’s face it, since everything now runs on a subscription model or operates on a pay wall, costs pile up.
If you’re into research or want to look up information, libraries are very much on the “this thing has cited sources,” so it makes it so much easier to cross-reference and find other materials. Even something outdated will have sources and make your journey easier on bridging past information with the current models because, hey, we stand on the shoulders of giants.
Outside areas are wide, open, and shady with real benches (aka a really good hangout spot, just pick up your trash)
Reserved meeting rooms. Use it for tutoring, game nights, or designated nap time during finals week. It’s free. Just ask about the sign-in.
“Banned” books access. (Some school districts ban certain reading material due to controversial subjects (To Kill a Mockingbird, The Kite Runner, or The Handmaid’s Tale), but some get banned because parental backlash (Harry Potter series, the Percy Jackson series, and Where’s Waldo)
Cool programs, like the Seed Library and Adulting 101
Libraries are usually in the know of what social programs are active and available and can point you in the right direction: educational grants and scholarships, housing, food stamps and food programs, and medical care to name a few areas
Public libraries are also civic centers of engagement, so voter registration and a place to vote as well
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