“Don’t give up reading or movies; rather, discover all the free offerings that are as close as your local library,” says Maria Pippidis, a family and consumer science educator with University of Delaware Cooperative Extension. “A library card saves you from pulling those other cards – debit and credit cards – out of your wallet,” notes Pippidis. “If you haven’t been in a public library lately, you may not know about the wide range of print, audio and video items that can be checked out, free of charge.”

In addition to books, most public libraries stock videos and DVDs, including recent releases, children’s programming and, in some cases, foreign releases. Audio books also are a popular item with commuters and others looking for books on the go.

Patrons who can’t find what they’re looking for on the shelves can ask if the library can obtain it from an affiliated library. There is an interlibrary loan system in place statewide, and loan requests can be made to out-of-state libraries in some cases. An online card catalog allows one to search for, and request, items without leaving the comforts of home.

Libraries also provide extensive programming for kids, seniors and everyone in between.

Story times for preschoolers and book clubs are time-honored traditions at most libraries. But these days, library patrons can also find workshops, game nights, family films and computer classes. The Rehoboth Beach Public Library hosts regular meetings of a genealogical society, a baseball enthusiasts’ group and a children’s reading program with therapy dog assistants.

Most libraries also subscribe to research databases that the public may not be able to access from a home computer, including MedLine, the Delaware Public Archives, and Funk and Wagnall Encyclopedia. Career and job hunting databases are just the start of the library resources available to those seeking employment. Local libraries have information on job bulletin boards, employment programs offered by the county and the state of Delaware, and other employment resources.

“Best of all, the price of admission can’t be beat,” says Pippidis. “Anyone can visit a Delaware library and take advantage of the programs and services. To check an item out, all you need is a library card, which is free with proof of residency. Once you start pulling out your library card, you’ll find yourself using those other cards in your wallet less often.”

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