Public Libraries Aren’t Going Extinct — They’re Evolving

These venerable institutions are far more than a musty collection of books — they’re now everything from recording studios to nightlife hotspots.

Overdue Library Travels: The Redwood Library & Athenaeum in Newport, RI

This concept of a place for scholars to gather, read, discuss, and learn is deeply rooted in history (hence Athena at Athens!), and played a large role in making libraries what they are today. The Redwood Athenaeum in Newport, Rhode Island epitomizes the amazing value that athenaeums have held in the US, before it was even a country of its own.

Little Free Library: A community created extension of the public library

Take a book, return a book. Such a simple idea that sparked a world-wide phenomenon. Maybe you’ve seen the small boxes filled with books called Little Free Libraries around your city or neighborhood - they many times look like mini houses. These community created extensions of the public library serve to expand literacy and give children and adults with limited access to books more opportunities to read.

Not sure what to read? Here are 7 ways to pick your next book.

The only problem is if you don’t have a to-read list, that last feeling of excitement can easily be replaced by a “lost” feeling if there’s nothing lined up to start reading. Deciding what to read can be difficult if you’re not sure what you’re looking for. Here are 7 ways to hopefully make that process of finding your next book a little easier.

Part 2: 10 Ways to Pursue Self-Improvement at Your Library… Without Picking Up a Book

Libraries are much more than just books. Few people know about the many fun and educational services offered by public libraries everywhere that don’t involve books or reading. Self-improvement doesn’t have to cost any money if you seek out solutions at your public library.  Immersing yourself in free learning opportunities only requires a library card and some curiosity.

Part 1: 10 Ways to Pursue Self-Improvement at Your Library… Without Picking Up a Book

Libraries are much more than just books. Few people know about the many fun and educational services offered by public libraries everywhere that don’t involve books or reading. Self-improvement doesn’t have to cost any money if you seek out solutions at your public library.

Overdue Library Travels: Boothbay Harbor

At first glance, the stately Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library gives off quite the historical vibe, as many libraries and buildings do in the Northeast. Sitting at the top of a hill in downtown Boothbay Harbor, the white columns spanning the height of the building beckon all book-lovers to enter.

Are Overdue Fines Worth It?

There has been a lot of debate recently in the library world about the effectiveness and necessity of overdue fines at public libraries. More and more libraries have started conversations of what it would look like to do away with overdue fines. Would it change the behavioral patterns of patrons for better or worse?

Library Services Exposed: eBooks

eBooks have dramatically expanded the reach of public libraries’ services… I mean, you don’t even have to leave your house to check out books! In addition, the expansion of accessibility for handicapped and/or disabled patrons that these online databases have given libraries is extremely important.

4 Fiction Books You Should Read If You Haven’t Already

However after finishing it, I was absolutely entranced that such a complicated topic could be written about so elegantly and effortlessly. It has stolen my heart ever since and is now one of my all-time favorite books. With years in between each of the few times I have read this book, it has still managed to pleasantly surprise me with its breath-taking storyline and mesmerizing characters.