Library Services for People with Developmental Disabilities

Libraries have always found a way to reach all kinds of populations in their communities, from those that are homeless, to seniors, to toddlers. They offer resources so that everyone feels like they can go to the library for whatever they need. And, when the library finds that there are people that aren’t being equally served, they make the effort to change that by finding new ideas and training their staff.

Here's How Librarians Choose What Goes on the Shelves

Book banning is in the air again as self-important busybodies around the United States rail against parental choice, the expertise of teachers, and the professional duties of librarians. The spittle in the air is thick with ignorance and self-righteousness as the misinformed maraud against the freedom to read. Perhaps it’s once again time for a national read-around of Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451? 

Libraries Are a Gateway to Community Connection

Many of us think of libraries as just a place for literature. Checking out a book allows the reader to escape into faraway places, the great minds of authors, and the collective knowledge of our people. Reading is a great form of self-care, but it is also a solitary activity that can take you away from others.  

Learn a New Language for Free Using Your Library Card

It may seem impossible to find accessible and affordable language-learning resources. But, did you know that your local library can provide all of these tools and more?  Needing only a library card, you could potentially learn an entire language for free. Whether that includes using language learning technology like Mango or CDs that help you practice conversational skills, access to materials like films and books, or a free class, your library is ready to help you meet your learning goals for free!

Save Money, Use the Library

Did you know that you could save $50 or more a month by using your local, public library? Avid readers get a lot of benefits from obtaining free, accessible books, office space, resources, and services. Libraries are a public service that is designed to make their resources as affordable as possible for everyone. Whether you’re trying to decrease your spending, living through financial insecurity, are a student, or simply want to explore ways to bolster your savings your local library can help! Here are all the reasons why libraries are a fantastic way to save money.

New Fitness Goals? Join the Library Instead of the Gym

With the new year comes new goals for health and fitness. The treadmills and ellipticals at the local gyms will start to fill up as new and old members alike summon fresh motivation from their New Year’s resolutions. While you may be tempted to sport a brand spanking new membership at your local gym, you might want to think twice before shelling out your hard-earned cash for sign-up fees and monthly membership dues.

Reading is Self-Care

Reading can be seen as a “lonely,” “academic,” and “lazy” hobby. Also, some people understandably feel bitter about reading after being forced to analyze certain books in school. Reading is a completely normal and healthy way to relieve stress and exercise your brain. It invokes creativity and intense feelings of empathy that force your brain to literally “escape.” During a global pandemic, being able to temporarily escape into a novel may be more important than ever. Here are all the reasons why reading is a valid form of self-care.  

Trevor Noah and Levar Burton Talk About Book Banning

If missed this week's Daily Show with Trevor Noah, you missed out on seeing Levar Burton and Trevor Noah talking about the new culture war: Book Banning.

10 Ways You Can Show Your Favorite Library Some Love

With Valentine’s Day on our radar, we are all looking forward to finding ways to show those we care about some love. We’re sure to remember our significant other, our family members, or a group of our best pals, but have you ever thought about showing your local library some love? These essential institutions are incredible places that play many different types of roles for people in the community. Library staff works tirelessly to educate, support, and guide patrons that walk through the door without asking for recognition. However, chocolates and flowers aren’t the way to go (although, feel free to gift some to your favorite library staff members if you’d like!) Instead, there are numerous other ways to show your favorite library some love for. We’ll share ten of our favorites.

What Do People Love About Libraries?

Libraries are much more than the books shelved on bookcases. While libraries are created with common purposes, the role they end up taking on depends on their community setting. A Reddit user recently shared concerns about an encounter with televisions in the library. Reddit users have used this post as an online discussion opportunity to point out the cool ideas that libraries embrace.