Libraries have long acted as pillars of their communities. As more and more parts of our world go digital, you might wonder if your local library still has a place in your daily life. The answer is a resounding “yes!” The power of your local library cannot and should not go ignored. Your local library offers a wide range of services, both in-person and digital, that will give you and your family an abundance of opportunities for learning and for fun.

If you’re not sure how to get started, you’re not alone. Many people associate libraries just with the chance to check out physical copies of books. While that’s a hugely important service that you shouldn’t forget, your library also offers you so much more. That’s why we at Crème de la Crème of Peachtree Corners (Norcross), Georgia, put together this list of ways to take advantage of the Gwinnett County Public Library.

Explore Digital Resources

Image via Flickr by teclasorg

In today’s digital world, libraries are making the leap to offer ever-expanding digital services. If you’re interested in e-books and audiobooks, for instance, there’s a good chance your local library offers free access to those types of books in addition to hardcover copies. You’ll get access to resources like OverDrive, PressReader, Flipster, and more via the Gwinnett County Public Library, and you’ll instantly expand your reading and listening possibilities.

Your library’s digital resources likely go beyond utilizing e-book and audiobook options, too. From access to newspapers and other media that require digital subscriptions to research and reference databases, libraries open up a world of possibilities for their local communities.

Using Gwinnett County Public Library’s resources, you can explore your genealogy, learn a new language, work on some business or creative skills, and more. With more and more of these resources getting added to online systems every day, you’re sure to find something that you’re interested in exploring. Even if you can’t get to the physical building, you’ll want to see what digital resources you can take advantage of from the comfort of your home.

Sign Up for Free Events and Workshops

Libraries also play host to an abundance of events and workshops designed for their local communities. From culinary events to arts and crafts sessions, help with various applications to language classes and story time for kids, Gwinnett County Public Library has something for everyone.

Our library also offers these exciting events beyond the walls of the building. Many classes and events take place online or in blended online and in-person formats, so you can easily find something that fits your needs.

If you’re looking for community and inspiration to expand your reading list, one thing to explore is your local library’s book clubs. Gwinnett County Public Library has this offering, and you’ll find virtual book clubs via the library system, as well. The possibilities really are endless once you start looking into the features of your local library.

Look Into What You Can Check Out Besides Books

It’s not only books you can get from your local library. One great service many local libraries (including Gwinnett County Public Library) offer is the chance to check out parks and museum passes. Instead of paying admission for everyone in the family, you can check out a pass for a designated length of time that gives you free access to some amazing local spots.

Checking out park and museum passes is a great way to plan an outing the whole family will enjoy without having to worry about the cost of admission for a bigger group. At the same time, you’ll expand your knowledge of cultural locations close to you.

Libraries offer a range of things to check out beyond the traditional pile of books, so no matter what you need, you should check in with your local spot to see if you can borrow from them. For example, Gwinnett County Public Library even allows you to check out a Wi-Fi hot spot.

Further Your Education

Libraries offer educational opportunities designed for kids, teens, and adults alike. Libraries can connect kids to enriching resources like access to tutors, research materials, and even websites that offer fun and exciting ways to learn from home. No matter how old your kids are, you can turn to Gwinnett County Public Library for ideas to get them engaged with learning that you might not otherwise think of. This goes well beyond books (though, of course, our library can get kids excited about reading, too).

Gwinnett County Public Library has also put together resources that you can make use of yourself. For instance, if you’re looking to learn more about personal finances, turn to this local library. You’ll find classes and curated lists of resources that can help you learn about how to manage finances and other areas in your life.

Make Use of Services for the Community

A local library also serves as a hub for the community, providing access to services in one easy-to-find place. Gwinnett County Public Library offers passport services if you need to apply for a passport or get a new one for your child. The library also helps members of the community register to vote. You can register or amend your voter registration when you get a new library card or update the address on the card you have with this library system.

You can even head to the local library if you need access to technology to help the kids with schoolwork or work on your own projects. Gwinnett County Public Library offers access to computers as well as printing, photocopying, Wi-Fi, and other technology. Libraries like ours really are an invaluable tool for everyone in the communities they serve. Whether you need supplies or internet access for an ongoing project or it’s a one-time thing, you should turn to your library as a first step to see if it has resources to help you get started.