Issue link: https://www.cominghomemag.com/i/1525817
PINCH OF GOODNESS F the L of Books Get a Card The easiest way to support your library is to become a card-carrying member. A measure of library success, high membership rates prove value and prevent budget cuts. Sign up online or in person for free at your branch, and in a few minutes, you'll have access to a treasure trove of literature, entertainment, art, and more. With a lifetime of learning at your fingertips, there's no reason not to have a library card in your name. Br Books (and Me!) Once you have your library card, make the most of it by borrowing stuff. Whether you're a voracious reader, movie buff, or music lover, your library likely has something to cater to your interests. Checking out books, movies, music, and other items boosts circulation numbers, strengthening the library's funding and advancing resources. Plus, borrowing instead of buying reduces waste and pushes sustainability—a win-win for you and the environment. Visit Often Your librarians want to see you stopping in for visits. Increased foot traffic means increased partnerships, services, and financial contributions. You can check out books or use the library to study or hold meetings. There's free Wi-Fi, printers, and comfy areas to set up shop for hours on end. Additionally, many libraries host weekly events for people of all ages. You'll get a calendar full of activities for you and your family when you become a member. Adults can acquire skills like coding or get assistance with tax preparation, while kids can go to tutoring, painting courses, and reading sessions. Ve 2024 is an election year, and you may be able to cast your vote at your local library. Show up and show your representatives that libraries are important to your neighborhood. Outside of election seasons, make sure to stay on top of library-related issues and write to legislators to encourage the protection of libraries and their initiatives. Make D•ati•s If you have books gathering dust on shelves, consider donating them to your library. This gives them new life and fellow readers a chance to enjoy titles just as much as you did. And you don't have to limit yourself to giving great reads away. Ask your librarians if they need other media or supplies. DVDs, CDs, crafting materials, and even cooking tools can be donated to help branches remain busy, well-stocked, and active. SIMPLE WAYS TO SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY. Want a place to learn, connect with neighbors, and enrich your creativity? Head to the library! This vibrant hub for imagination and education offers more than endless rows of books. Typically free and accessible to all members of society, libraries are community cornerstones that provide reliable information, preserve history, promote literacy, and foster engagement—and they deserve your attention and support. Here are five ways to help your local libraries continue their missions and stick around for good. 28 COMING HOME MAGAZINE