Don’t Forget your Local Library This Summer

It goes unsaid: Your local public library can save you loads of money. This summer, don’t forget to turn to this often overlooked resource for free books and movies, plus fun opportunities!

Check your library’s Web site for a calendar of events. Most offer summer reading programs, which are great ways to keep your kids reading until they’re back in school. Some also hold weekly outdoor story time events. My kids enjoy these as an alternative to going to the playground.

And you might not know this: Some libraries also have a reusable family pass for free zoo or museum admissions. Just request the pass—and as long as no one else has it checked out, the free admission can save you a bundle.

If your family enjoys a Friday night video, you can save money by checking out DVDs or videos from the library. They often have CDs and magazines available for checkout as well.

And of course, turn to the library before reaching for your wallet to buy that novel for your beach bag. This will save you money and bookshelf space, too!

If you're not signed up as a cardholder at a library near you, check out this I Love Libraries site with links to larger libraries in your area and an alphabetical list of libraries in your state.