they’re constantly at risk of being defunded (particularly now in nyc), but they’re one of the last free third spaces left that’s accessible no matter the season (of life or the year). learn something and meet someone new (get to know your local librarian). public parks are also wonderful in the spring and summer, and always check if there’s any free museums near you
As the only true third spaces left in a world where you can hardly leave your house without having to spend money, supporting and utilizing these public services has become more necessary than ever. People don't realize just how many free services are offered by their local branches. From workshops, to free access to online classes and audiobooks, museum passes, movie nights, private study rooms, equipment available to borrow, community building – it's so much more than just borrowing books (which is also cool, btw). Also a great alternative to loitering at a coffee shop.
besides free books (physical, digital, audio) the amount of stuff u have access to is wild. i’m talking board games, sewing machines, language classes, coding lessons, cds and dvds (that you can rip and copy and kEEP - none of the librarians are gonna tell you shit for that), maker spaces, 3D printers, community events, ballet classes, movie nights, car repair lessons, resume help, free national park tickets, bat tours during october! It’s great! And for free?!?? in thIS economy? Literally why pay for a coworking space when the library is Right there, with free wifi and quiet rooms all to yourself. And if there are things you don’t see offered but want to? Ask! Or even better, offer!! Start your own thing, get to know your community members. Utilize your third spaces, they’re great!!
I simply love the library. I just moved to a new city and I’m looking for work and I can plop myself down in the library, go on my laptop and look for jobs, leaf thru some books, the membership gets me free tix to cultural institutions and free streaming, in my branch there is even a cute patio with comfy chairs to work outside! A blessing and one public thing US cities do really well
this summer, we’re starting yoga, we’re learning a new language (being bilingual is now the standard, you need to know at least three to be truly chic), we’re going to concerts just because the tickets were cheap, we’re going to museums (especially the weird ones), hitting up the local library to ask for new recommendations, whether it’s a surprise or based on past tastes, we’re painting, collecting and collaging, sewing and embroidering our clothes, re-learning the harmonica, playing chess with strangers online and at the café, we’re taking up tennis and pretending it’s not just because of challengers. the only way to find what brings you joy is to try.