National Library Week 2023: There’s More to the Story

It’s National Library Week, and this year the theme is “There’s More to the Story.” As an avid reader, I visit the library often to pick up books for myself. As a mom, I also use the library to meet my toddler’s overwhelming need for Paw Patrol books this week, and then it will be firetrucks, and then it will be books about monkeys, but libraries offer so much more than just books!

Reading materials

In addition to storybooks, libraries are a great place to get things like cookbooks or craft books that you may only want for a short time. They also have e-books to read on your Kindle or Nook device. They also have graphic novels, magazines, and newspapers. Libraries are a great resources for all types of books.

Social groups

Don’t think of a library as a dark, dusty, quiet place. Libraries are often a hub of social interaction! Common activities include playgroups for toddlers, story times for babies and kids (sometimes there’s a dog that kids can read to and pet!), LEGO groups, STEM clubs, book clubs, cookbook clubs, knitting circles, photography clubs, and so much more.

Classes

In addition to learning through books, many libraries also offer workshops or classes. These can include help preparing your taxes, help for job seekers, English language classes, photography classes, dance classes, baby and me, yoga classes, you name it!

Museum Passes

One of the best things about local libraries is that they provide access to free or discounted museum passes. This year, we’ve used our library to get free or discounted entry to MA state parks, Drumlin Farm (Lincoln, MA), and the Discovery Museum (Acton, MA). Next on our list to visit are the Ecotarium (Worcester, MA) and Museum of Fine Arts (Boston).

Tech Stuff

Libraries are great about keeping up to date with the community’s tech needs. Libraries often loan out things like laptops, WIFI hotspots, and even 3D printers! And for all of us millennials who don’t have printers at home but occasionally need to print, libraries usually offer free or low-cost printing.

Space

Libraries provide quiet working space which can be a lifesaver for remote workers who sometimes want to get out of the house. They can also be a safe space for teens to do their homework or meet with friends and use the free WIFI! Libraries with a children’s area can also be a great place for an indoor playdate.

Even More Stuff!

Lots of libraries provide take-and-make crafts for kids or adults. Many libraries will provide a jigsaw puzzle that anyone can drop in and work on. In the spring, some provide free seeds for growing your own vegetables or flowers. They even lend out puzzles, games, or toys.

Make sure to stop by your local library and talk to your friendly librarian during National Library Week. Also check out their websites for a calendar of events and information about hours before you visit!