A love letter to local libraries

There’s something almost magical about libraries. As a child, they felt like places of endless inspiration, containing keys for unlocking other realms, going back in time and trying out supernatural powers. As an adult, libraries remain a place of both escape and shelter - even if the pressures of life mean you can no longer get lost in a book for hours on end.

Since the pandemic, we’ve been returning to our libraries in droves, rightfully recognising them as fantastic, free community resources. But while visits have increased by 68%, spending on UK libraries has fallen by 17%. This waning investment comes at a time when libraries are more crucial to our communities than ever before. There are very few places left where people can go to access information, meet others and keep warm - without needing to spend anything.

We wanted to highlight all the fantastic, free resources on offer at your local library - some of which may be more obvious than others! Making the most of our libraries in this day and age is crucial to ensuring they remain open for generations to come, so we hope this inspires you to take out a new membership card - or perhaps dust off your old one!

So, without further ado, here are eight things you can do at your local library:"

1. Become a member!

This may sound simple, but the first step towards benefiting from everything that libraries have to offer is to become a member (it’s free). You can sign up in-person or online, and membership is often for people within the council area - so you don’t just have to use the one that’s closest to your home.

Becoming a member of your local library helps indicate that it’s a valued community resource.

2. Borrow a book, magazine or newspaper

I’m sure you know that you can borrow a book from your library - but did you know that you can check out magazines and newsletters too?

Libraries provide a fantastic opportunity for reading a seemingly infinite number of novels, mags and papers without having to pay for a single one. This is particularly great if you, like us, are trying to cut down on your spending. Borrowing books also supports authors, who get a small amount of money every time their book is loaned out.

3. Join a book club

Whether you’re a diehard bookworm or are just keen to meet new people, joining a book club is a worthwhile way to spend an hour or two a week.

Not quite your thing? Other community organisations - such as local walking or craft groups - often meet at libraries, so it’s worth inquiring about these next time you’re there.

4. Take part in a parent and child group

The majority of libraries host parent and child groups, which are designed to introduce babies and toddlers to reading early on and help parents and carers to meet others in the same boat. A win-win!

5. Work or study from there

If you’re keen to switch up your remote working routine, heading to your local library is the way to go. Not only are libraries quiet by nature, but many also offer study booths which you can hire for a few hours if you need to take a Zoom call.

Your local library could be the change of scene you’re looking for - and a great way to boost your productivity without having to shell out for a coffee or sandwich at a local café.

6. Join a coding club

Libraries have long offered fantastic free courses aimed at improving the computer literacy of older generations. More recently, some libraries have begun offering coding courses to children and adults keen to develop their skills in the digital age.

It’s worth following your local library on Twitter or Facebook to see exactly what’s on offer nearby. You could also pop into reception and talk to the staff there. That way, if a course you’re interested in isn’t on offer, they’ll be able to direct you to any other libraries in your area which might have what you’re looking for.

7. Research your family tree

If that 23andMe test you got for Christmas has sparked an unexpected interest in genealogy, the library is a great place to begin researching your family tree (or local history). As well as offering access to online and paper records, some libraries also host drop-in sessions where you can get help with your research and meet like-minded people.

8. Donate books

This one is technically more about what *you* can do for your local library - but if you have any books in good condition that you’re looking to clear out, check if your library will take them. If they can’t keep them all, they usually hand them on to other charities or organisations that will benefit from your donation.