Even in 2026, libraries are still an invaluable resource to any community, but many people still regard them as big buildings with old books. Leaving fantastic resources underutilized, which is often used to justify slashing budgets. And it’s a shame considering how far these public institutions have come into the 21st century to support their patrons.
While resources will depend on what your local branch has to offer, many libraries nationwide participate in the following:
1. Streaming Content
Right off the bat, libraries do offer free, ad-free streaming content. The most popular services are:
- Freegal for music streaming
- Kanopy for movies
- Libby for ebooks, audiobooks, and digital comics
- Hoopla for ebooks, audiobooks, digital comics, streaming music, movies, and television.
The selection on these platforms also varies by branch due to licensing. In our experiences, the selection on each of these platforms is surprisingly eclectic, mixing older titles with more modern offerings.
2. Physical Media
Are you one of those people that bemoans the loss of Blockbuster? What if we told you video rentals still exist, and they are free? Well, it’s true thanks to your local library, with many offering DVDs, Blu-rays, video games, books on CD, and obviously books. They often have longer borrowing periods than Blockbuster anyway.
3. Library of Things
Not all library offerings are media-related, either. Many branches nationwide are beginning to offer Libraries of Things, where patrons borrow physical objects. For example, error code readers for cars, hand/power tools, weaving looms, driving cone kits, board games, and so much more. Some will go a step further and create libraries dedicated to one specific item, for example, a library of baking pans. These programs are great for expensive/speciality items that patrons may not be able to afford or can’t justify buying.
4. Computer/Internet Access
In our modern world, it’s hard to get by without a computer or at least internet access. Many schools insist on assignments being submitted digitally, and job hunting for most people is done completely online. Despite all of this, not everyone has reliable access to a computer.
This is where libraries step in, with most offering computer labs with terminals that have (often restricted) access to the internet. On top of that, these labs are often run by people who can help patrons with basic tech questions. Making sure even total technophobes can get access to the resources that they need.
5. WiFi Hotspots
Even with all their wonderful offerings, libraries are not open 24 hours a day. So what if you need the internet when they are closed? By renting a WiFi hotspot to take home with you. While renters’ usage is capped, this can be a great tool to cover basic, everyday internet needs.
6. Printers
Where there are computer labs, there are printers. While everyone keeps harping on everything going digital (us included), some things still have to be done on paper. Libraries offer various printing and copying services for most documents. Some can even digitize old documents or allow patrons to print a few pages off for free.
7. Classes/Makerspaces/Creative Studios
Makerspaces are collaborative workspaces inside a school, library, or separate public/private facility for making, learning, exploring, and sharing. Focusing on using high-tech to no-tech tools. These spaces have things like specialized printers, sublimation machines, engraving tools, and more. Most offer classes on how to use these tools and on countless other subjects.
8. Income Tax Help
Many organizations offer free help with tax preparation. One of the best places to organize these services is at local libraries, given their connection to communities.
9. Museum & Park Passes
If you want to check out a paid museum or amusement park, check with your local library first. Some offer programs that grant free or discounted access. Sometimes in exchange for reading. Think of it like BookIt, but instead of pizza, you get a fun little trip.
10. Ancestry Services
Given libraries’ deep ties to their communities, it only makes sense that they offer ancestry and genealogical services.
11. Quiet/Study Rooms
Do you need to study and can’t get any quiet? Or do you work from home and need to get out of the house? Libraries often offer quiet/study rooms for just this purpose. Patrons can rent a room where they can (quietly) do an activity for a certain amount of time. We’ve utilized this option in the past when our home internet went out.
12. Diaper & Food Distribution Programs
There are countless resources nationwide to help people get food and diapers. Most work with local libraries to organize pick-up days. To help families get consistent, reliable access to basic needs.
Bonus: Librarians
Obviously, you know your local library has librarians in it, but it’s important to stress how useful they are as a resource. They know all of the programs that your local branch offers inside and out, on top of being able to help you use them. Allowing you the ability to explore more on your own.
Be sure to check with your local branch to see which of these resources you may have access to.
