I do not buy most of the books I read. I frequently receive books as gifts for various occasions or from friends who are passing their copy on to me. The vast majority of books I read come from the library.
I LOVE THE LIBRARY. I’ve worked in various libraries since I was old enough to get a job and I find it a comforting place. I mean, come on, free stuff? I just have to return it? Perfect! And since many libraries are doing away with overdue fines and have added automatic renewals, it is easier than ever to check materials out and enjoy them.
I know the library can feel intimidating, especially if you have to utilize a librarian to find materials. I hated asking where things were when I was younger (and still would rather do it myself). Library websites are pretty intuitive to use (for basic stuff, anyway) and I use them to search for books. If it’s available at my local library, I pick it up because it tells me exactly what section it should be in or just place a hold on it to pick up when it gets sent to my library. Then, I don’t really have to talk to anyone and still get what I want! Plus I love self-checkout so I really never have to talk to anyone.
But I get that the way libraries are set up aren’t simple for everyone, which is why holds are so handy because you just need to know the author or title. And libraries have free computers if you don’t have a computer/phone at home to use. AND some libraries let you sign up online for a library card and send it to you, making it even easier to not talk to anyone! What a time to be alive!
E-books
Now, with your trusty library card, typically you can access e-books! I never thought I would be the type of person to read e-books. I mean, I buy vinyl records so I tend to go with physical copies of things. But having the current book I’m reading accessible on my phone is incredible. It’s cut down on how much time I spend on wasteful websites and social media. When I wait in a long line, I’m reading my book instead of browsing mindlessly. I don’t have to carry a heavy hardcover book in my bag but I still always have it with me.
Another perk of e-books is no lost or overdue fines because the book is automatically returned (if it can’t be automatically or manually renewed) so you don’t have to worry about it.
Note: Use your local library! Less waste, less money, less hassle (sometimes). However, I do recommend checking over materials before checking them out on your card. Look for any damage that could potentially be assigned to you, any sign of bedbugs or cockroaches (disgusting but that’s why you look first!), and just to be sure it’s what you actually asked for. I’ve gotten blu-ray DVDs by accident and large print books. Sometimes the records don’t have all the needed information.
If you catch these things before checking them out, you can tell an employee right away so they can decide what needs to happen. Don’t let it fall on your shoulders–be proactive!
Linnea Books It 