How is your wallet doing these days? From groceries to utilities, it seems like the cost of everything is continuing to go up. I was out running errands this morning and happened to drive home past our local library. I love the library so much, and not just for the free books. If you have not been inside your public library lately, you really should go check it out. What all can the library offer you? I am so glad you asked!
First, your library can offer free books (and puzzles, music, movies, games, and more). The public library is a fantastic first stop when planning a trip. From travel guides to maps, your local library often has information on places that are new to you. I love starting with travel guides for ideas on what to do, where to eat, and where to stay. I also really enjoy reading fictional books by authors from the place I will visit. And, if you have trouble finding a book you want, just ask a librarian! They are always happy to help out.
Second, your local library may offer museum passes. We do not have money to travel internationally all the time, so exploring our state is a great way to see new spots. For example, my local library not only offers passes to local science and art museums, but also to performing art centers, zoos, state reservations, kayak rentals, and more. Some passes offer a discount while others provide entry/rental for no cost at all. Now, usually you can only get these passes from the library which issued your library card, so just be sure to double check that information.
Speaking of exploring locally, have you been to other public libraries in your area? One summer, my kids and I challenged ourselves to visit every library in our consortium. Road trip? Check. Seeing new places? Check. Finding new foods, learning new facts, meeting new people? Check, check, check! Many libraries have their own local history, architectural nuances, and free offerings. And even better news? You often do not have to be a town resident to sign up for the programs. My kids practically grew up at our local library. They did sewing classes, film classes, science and art classes, and so much more. For adults, you can find programs about filing taxes and using a computer, but you can also find cooking groups, knitting groups, art classes, movie clubs, photography clubs and more.
If you find yourself in a strange town and you need information, look for the public library. Librarians are a wealth of information, and they love sharing their knowledge. I have gotten some of the best tips on where to eat, what to do, and what to skip from librarians across the United States. Libraries are accessible, have public facilities, water, charging areas for your devices, free internet, computers, and other resources for every member of the public.
Now, if you find yourself in the Merrimack Valley area, you should check out the Haverhill Public Library in Massachusetts. This library hosts two large events every year that are totally free and packed with guests, vendors, and prizes. The first event happens in May, and it is the HPL Comic Con. This all ages event boasts top tier guests, panels, vendors, a cosplay event, food trucks and more. Face painting, balloons, comics, book signings, games, raffles, this comic con is a real party atmosphere.
The second event that the Haverhill Library hosts is the Merrimack Valley Halloween Book Festival in October. This festival is a spooky gathering of authors and artists who love all things Halloween and horror. Panels, meet and greets, vendors, discussions, and a talented gathering of authors awaits you at this fun event. This event is totally free, but keep an eye on any sign ups as the spots go very quickly! Some authors who have attended in the past are Joe Hill, Christopher Golden, Paul Tremblay, Owen King, and more. It is a fantastic event, and both it and the comic con help raise money for the library. Win, win!
I hope I have given you some ideas of how to more fully utilize your public library, or any public library, for travel and exploration. From passes to programs, you really should go in and see how much fun you can have for free at your local library.