The Best Gift for a Book Lover? A Well-Funded Public Library

National Book Lovers Day may have come and gone on August 9, but the spirit behind it is worth carrying forward. When book lovers think about their most common gifts, they usually picture bookmarks, gift cards, or reading journals. However, perhaps the greatest gift for any book lover is a well-funded public library. Why? Libraries keep books, reading spaces, and community programs accessible to everyone—not just on one holiday, but all year long.

Why Funding Matters

Simply put, funding helps libraries provide free and accessible resources to the public. Behind the scenes, a library’s budget determines how many books it can purchase overall, affecting the availability of different formats and the number of copies of each title it can offer patrons.

Additionally, budget cuts can affect staffing, making it more difficult for librarians to manage a library efficiently and to lead certain programs. Technology upgrades depend on funding, too, as do outreach partnerships with schools, senior centers, and correctional facilities. Strong budgets keep these essential services running.

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What Book Lovers Actually Need (And Why Libraries Deliver It)

Free Materials

Libraries are best known for providing free books, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Many offer research materials, office supplies, kitchen tools, physical media, and so much more. Exploring your local branch’s collection often reveals unexpected resources.

For example, the Hennepin County Library System in Minnesota operates seed libraries where patrons can pick up donated seeds and learn about gardening.

Entertainment

Libraries aren’t just helpful—they’re fun. Librarians get creative with their programming, including events such as movie screenings and craft tutorials. And for many book lovers, the act of reading itself makes libraries very entertaining places to visit.

Since 1994, the Free Library of Philadelphia has hosted the Author Events program, which has won several awards for its featured guests. Some of their distinguished authors have included Trevor Noah, Margaret Atwood, and Bernie Sanders.

Community

While books are an essential element of libraries, it’s also important to remember that they are community centers. Libraries serve as critical third spaces that are free to enter and accessible to everyone, including people who are disabled, older, or experiencing financial insecurity. Libraries host activities like book clubs, provide community rooms, and organize special events.

The Madison Public Library’s annual Wisconsin Book Festival in October is one example, offering author events that “celebrate books and spark conversations.”

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Accessible Education

Some people’s education journeys look different, and libraries help bridge the gap. Some offer GED support through classes, practice tests, and study guides. Many provide free tutoring, study spaces, and computer access for students of all ages. Librarians frequently teach specialized classes—such as technology literacy—that are free to the public.

The Brooklyn Public Library’s HSE/GED prep program enrolls participants in weekly classes to prepare for their exams. Interested applicants must be over 17, but enrollment is free.

Librarians

At the end of the day, libraries don’t run themselves. Librarians are the heart and soul of every branch. Don’t let the stigma around shushing librarians deter you from asking them questions. After all, that’s what they’re there for! Whether you’re looking for upcoming events, research help, or book recommendations, librarians are always available to help.

The Aurora Public Library District in Illinois has a creative system set up for people stuck in a reading slump. Known as a “book match,” the service has patrons provide basic information and answer a few questions via an application before pairing them with a personalized recommendation.

Book Lovers Day may be over, but the work of supporting public libraries is ongoing. If any of the programs above sound appealing, remember that they exist because of continued funding—and librarians can only do so much without it. 

You can show your support for your fellow book lovers by visiting your local public library, borrowing a few books, and donating to its funds. You can also advocate for and vote for library funding to keep collections strong.

Interested in learning more about how to help? Consider donating to support libraries through EveryLibrary. We’ve also provided a convenient prefilled letter to representatives so you can tell them how much you appreciate well-funded libraries.

Visit www.everylibrary.org to learn more about our work on behalf of libraries. 

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