Lose yourself (Picture: Getty)

As a child, one of the highlights of my week was when my mum took me to the local library.

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I remember the feeling of excitement I would get on hearing the sound of the librarian stamping the inside cover (yes, I am that old) of my carefully chosen books.

And these days, libraries are even more exciting. You can now borrow CDs, DVDs, use the computer or take part in fun events.

Here are some very good reasons to join your local library.


1. It is free

Not many things are free these days – but libraries remain one place you can visit without it costing you anything.



I love going home with a bag full of books for me and the kids with all my money still in my wallet.

2. Digital detox

Ah, peace and quiet (Picture: Getty)

It is one of the few places you can go where people aren’t constantly on their mobile phone.

Or, even if they are at least they have the sound switched off.

3. Shhhhh…

It is also one of the few places in this world where it is nice and quiet.

4. Find out more about local history

Libraries often have extensive archives (Picture: Getty)

Libraries are one of the best places to research the history of your local area.

Most provide access to old newspapers, maps and out of print reference books and the librarians are great sources of knowledge.

5. Research your family history

Libraries have free access to ancestry.com so you can research your own origins without breaking the bank.

6. Free Wi-Fi

It’s quieter than using the free wi-fi at a coffee shop (Picture: Getty)

Take your laptop and surf the net for free or for a minimal fee you can rent out one of the library computers.

7. Learn new skills

Libraries offer a wide range of classes and tutorials on everything from writing a CV to computer skills. Ask your local librarian for details.

8. Discover new authors or genres

I am usually on a budget so I rarely buy a book on a whim. I am more likely to buy a genre or author that I know I am going to like rather than risk wasting money.

But because at the library I borrow multiple books at a time for FREE, I am far more likely to try something new.

9. They are great for children

Kids love them (Picture: Getty)

Every library has a children’s section and most host a free weekly story time event. ‘Wriggly Readers’ was a godsend when I was raising babies on a budget.

It also gives kids a chance to discover what sort of books they like and the freedom to make their own choices from a young age.

10. You might just find ‘your people’

Picture this. You love frogs. You go to the library to get out some books on your favourite subject and notice a few other people in the Frog section.

Finally, you have found some like-minded people!

11. It can be your office

I work from home as a writer, which is not always the easiest thing to do when you have two small children who won’t leave you the hell alone.

So I retreat to the library where I can write in peace. There is also something really inspiring about writing a book while being in among so many books.



12. It might just change your life

Get inspired (Picture: Getty)

When you are in a library, you are surrounded by some of history’s greatest and most creative minds. You are guaranteed to find something on one of the shelves that inspires you.

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