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20 alaska parent spring 2024 AlaskaParent.comBeyond Books:20 Reasons toLove the LibraryBy Pam MolnarIf it’s been awhile since you’ve been to the library, perhaps you only associate it with hardcover and paperback books. The library has so much more to offer than awesome books! Stop in your local branch today and get the full experience. Here are 20 reasons we love the library:1. E-BOOKSMany people choose eReaders over paper books. To save money, check out the local library eBook catalog (available online). OverDrive is used by libraries around the globe and offers 2.6 million titles to check out for free. 2. AUDIO BOOKSAudio books are also available through OverDrive or as CD sets to check out. Children’s audio books usually come with a matching paper book as a great reading aid.3. MUSIC Library collections include a variety of music on CD. E-music is available through apps like Freegal Music or Hoopla. It’s a great way to extend your own music library.4. VIDEOSWatch the latest release or binge watch TV shows you’ve missed. Videos are available for all ages and genres. Check out free DVDs or Blu-rays or watch them via online access through free apps like Hoopla.5. STORYTIMEMost libraries offer storytime in the children’s area. Kids can listen to the story while you browse the adult section or parents can sit in, too. There may even be a craft project to complement the story.6. KITSLibrary kits can be checked out for several weeks to help you build a new skill, such as a hobby or craft (knitting, baking, etc.), interactive STEM learning activities, fun board games, and more. Kits can include a variety of items, from books to mixing bowls! Check with your local branch to see what is offered in your area.7. SPEAKERSThe library schedules speakers on many subjects. Speakers may include historians, tax advisors, super couponers and small business consultants.8. INTERNET & COMPUTER USENot only do libraries offer free Wi-Fi for your devices, they also have computers and printers that you can use onsite. There is a small fee per sheet for printing, so bring pocket change.9. OTHER MEDIAYour local library might also have scanners, fax machines, equipment to convert VHS to DVD, 3-D scanners and printers. Inquire about fees associated with use or if it’s necessary to reserve space during busy times.10. COMPUTER & TECH HELPNeed to brush up on your computer skills? Check with your local library for free seminars and classes on using computers and other technology. Get help with Microsoft Office, analog converting software or graphics software. Or get hardware help with your laptop or phone.11. GENEALOGY & LOCAL HISTORYResearch historical databases, newspapers, archives, military records and more. Libraries often carry memberships to websites like Ancestry.com, Fold3 or HeritageQuest.12. ONLINE RESOURCESOnline memberships at the library are not limited to history. Ask your librarian about databases for business, legal, career assistance, medical, investments or to learn a language through Rosetta Stone.13. INTERLIBRARY LOANSIf you can’t find something at your local library, borrow it from another library through interlibrary loans. You can request books, DVDs, CDs, magazines or journals on microfilm. It’s a great resource for research not available online.14. BUSINESS SERVICESLibraries offer services to help people find jobs, update resumes, brush up on computer, speaking or writing skills, and start their own businesses.