Use Your Library for More Than Books

Libraries have a lot more to offer than people realize.

By Amy Mascott
Mar 23, 2015

Ages

Infant-13

Use Your Library for More Than Books

Mar 23, 2015

Three cheers for libraries!

Have you visited your library lately?  Have you spent time in your library, gotten comfy in your library?

Have you really enjoyed your library lately?

Do you know that there are a boatload of things you can do at your library other than actually running in, grabbing a few books, and leaving?

Here are some of our favorite ways of using our beloved library.

We go to the library for:

•    Homework time. Really. Some days, it's just nice to surprise the kids with a "Let's do homework at the library" day. There are so many quiet corners of the library for homework.

•    Quiet playtime.  Many libraries have a few (or more!) great toys in their children's section. Some libraries even allow you to check out the toys for a few days.

•    Cool programs. From babies to tweens to adults, most libraries have programs for everyone. Check them out.

•    Community building. Bring your family to the English Learners' Conversation Club if you have one. Just talk to people—that's all you have to do! And what a great way to show children how difficult it can be to learn a language!

•    Computer time.  With many public computers for everyone to use, all you need is a library card, and you have access to it all.

•    Listening to books. Many libraries have audio stations where you can listen to the books on tape (or CD).

•    Group meetings. Reserve a group meeting room and use it for your book club, Brownie or Boy Scout meeting, or just to hang out.

What other ways do you use your community library? We'd love to know!

Please share your thoughts on the Scholastic Parents Facebook page, or find Amy on Twitter, @teachmama, and let's continue the conversation!

Read all posts by Amy Mascott.
 

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