Your Library is a Portal to Value

Entertainment, research, faraway lands, times gone by and new things to learn; your local library is a portal to all this and more. The hush of the traditional library with vast shelves of fiction and nonfiction books has shifted to meet the growing needs of budget-conscious families and individuals. You’ll still find books that take you away page by page, but many free resources and activities have been added. Sign up for a free library card at one of the many libraries in upper Northern California and check it all out.

Libraries offer valuable programs regardless of budget

“We’re here to offer valuable programs for any family regardless of budget,” says Ashley Arellanes, children’s librarian at the Willows Branch of the Glenn County Public Library. In addition to books, magazines, audio books and DVD movies, Ashley is excited to offer story times with a craft, snack and free book for young children. Jewelry making with free supplies and a monthly movie are some of the teen activities available at the library. All ages are welcome for family movie time or building creatively at a block party. Plus, families can check out a telescope to study the skies!

North State libraries offer many fun activities and educational opportunities for kids and free services for budget-conscious families.

Technology and library services

Have you ever wondered if we still need libraries? Isn’t everything on the internet? Shasta Public Libraries director Jarod Tolman assures us that libraries remain a valuable resource, especially for those that may not be able to afford internet access, computers, books and streaming services at home. According to Jarod, “Libraries often see library services increase as inflation goes up and money becomes tighter for more and more people. Shasta libraries help people save money with great free resources. The only thing with a cost is printing documents at $0.25 per page for black and white or $0.50 per page for color.”

“With the burst of the internet and e-books, the library reevaluated what people wanted, needed and what should be made available to the public,” Jarod says. “Libraries became more like community centers. The library is the answer to how many people still gain access to the internet and family movie nights. It ensures that children’s early childhood literacy is supported and fostered so that children do not fall behind in academics.”

Technology is so infused in library services that patrons can search the online catalog from home, place a book on hold and have it shipped to the Shasta branch of their choice. Modern patrons can use their tablets and smartphones to access digital content such as e-books, e-magazines and audio books. Computers are available for public use and often used to apply for jobs or help students conduct research.

Libraries offer more than books and computer access

The list of Shasta Public Library resources is impressive. It goes beyond books to museum and state park passes covering day use fees, audio books, e-books, magazines, movies and tv shows, board games, sewing machines, recording sound studio and equipment, internet access, event space, a 3-D printer, die-cutter, crafting tools, a MakerSpace, computer lab and virtual reality headsets. They also offer tutoring for new readers or for boosting adult literacy skills. Coming soon: The Shasta Public Libraries will add Nintendo Switch, hiking backpacks, a seed library and lunch at the library for school-age children in June and July.

Discover new interests at the library

Michael Perry, Siskiyou County librarian and Museum Director, believes “the library can serve as a springboard for a family to engage in a new subject they would not otherwise have experienced together. With so many different books, families can give children a chance to discover new interests and participate with them as they get excited about something new.”

Michael encourages Siskiyou County residents to use the computers, printers and copiers at the library as well as the free Wi-Fi. Check out physical and electronic books, audio books, magazines, streaming videos and concerts and access online author talks, legal databases, the Wall Street Journal and The New York Times. Online tutoring is available for students K-Grade 12.

Libraries offer budget-conscious solutions for everyone

Your local library may offer the best budget-conscious solution for a free family outing. Whether you’re there for the fun activities, top-notch study materials, literacy support or making a regular stop to borrow books and movies, the library offers value for everyone. Use library resources as a cost-cutting best practice and enjoy every visit.