Despite being outside of your co-op, condo, or HOA, local libraries improve quality of life and sense of community in and out of your home. Use of this amenity ensures that you get the most value out of your community and your tax dollars. Below, we list examples of the many benefits of using your local public library.
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How to Get a Library Card
Getting a library card is easy. All you need is proof of residency (i.e. – mail, or a utility bill) and a form of identification (i.e. – driver’s license, or voter registration post card).
Examples of Services Offered by Long Island Libraries
Music and Art
- Live musical performances from local musicians (at libraries with auditoriums)
- Song-writing workshops and open mics for musical performers
- Borrow CDs and vinyl’s (i.e. – Long Beach Public Library)
- Art shows and galleries from Long Island artists of all ages
Learn Something New
- Fitness classes (yoga, pilates, etc.)
- Cooking classes
- Crafting workshops (and books)
- Literacy programs (Literacy Nassau County, New York / Literacy Suffolk County, New York)
Tip! Register for Your Library’s Newsletter
Check your local library’s website to sign up for digital or mailed newsletters.
Book and Audio Book Services
- Donate books (to participating libraries)
- Magazines and other publications
- Book clubs
- Digital tools for reading, and listening (audiobooks and e-books)
- Interlibrary loans
- Homebound mail services
- Publications on local history and folklore
Services and Events
- Passes to local museums and attractions (discounted or free passes)
- Career services and resources
- Children, teen, and family-friendly events and reading programs
- Blood drives
- Trick-or-treating and other seasonal events
- Flag shredding
- Crises and recovery resources
- Document shredding
- Printing, faxing, and wi-fi services
- Safe pill disposal (Do not flush medications down the toilet)
- Homework and tutoring help for students
- Library of “things” (Participating Libraries will allow you to borrow various items such as electronics, instruments, outdoor toys, games, etc.)
- Rent movies to watch at home, or go watch a movie at your local library
- A cooling or heating center (in case of an emergency)
- Onsite cafe
- Digital preservation services
- Notary services (i.e.– Bethpage Public Library)
- Learn a language through the library (Muzzy, language books, etc.)
- Organized field trips through the library
- Learn a new skill (i.e.- crochet, chess, coding, etc.)
Local Libraries Add Value to Your Home and Community
Our list is not an exhaustive collection of services available within Long Island library systems. However, it demonstrates how this amenity is rich with benefits that you can benefit from in and out of your home. Take advantage of the many resources available at your local library to maximize your cultural enrichment, knowledge, entertainment, and more.
