Free Library
A public library is a free library that is generally financed by public money, such as public taxes. Free libraries serve the population of the area in which they are located. A free library is non-profit and offers services and resources that an individual may not be able to afford.
• Free libraries offer a wide range of resources that are unavailable for free anywhere else. Some of these things include old periodicals, books (of fiction, non-fiction, and reference), DVDs, audio books, and computer usage with Internet access. Since there are many individuals who are unable to afford a computer or Internet access, free libraries offer individuals a chance to use both of these for a period of time. Often, an individual will sign up on the waiting list at the free library and assigned a computer reservation for a fixed period of time. Although there are some websites with content that cannot be displayed at free libraries, there are millions of websites available for viewing. In recent years, free libraries started offering video cassettes and DVDs to its members. At a free library, an individual will have access to many movies.
• A free library is often considered a fun way for children to be entertained. Many free libraries offer a range of activities from arts and crafts to story telling. Some free libraries also offer snacks during these sessions. Children are not the only ones who find events to attend. Free libraries have been known to host poetry slams, classes and local art shows. Meetings involving the local school district or issues that are open for public discussion are often hosted in free libraries, who may have conference rooms and meeting halls available. Depending on the size of the free library, there may be more than one.
• Another benefit that a free library offers are the services of a trained librarian who can help with research and reference questions. These librarians can even offer their help over the telephone, although it is more common for an individual to ask in person. Although much of this research is available on the Internet now, a trained librarian who works for a free library can usually answer the question better than a website.
In larger metropolitan areas, there will be many free libraries, some with different branches in different locations. Small towns may only have one small free library. No matter the size of the free library, it is a form of free entertainment for many individuals.