How to support your library
Libraries are places of discovery. You can discover a new favorite author when you borrow a new-to-you book. You can also help other patrons discover your favorite author by asking your library to buy a copy of their book.
But public libraries aren’t free. Your local public library is usually paid for through taxes. How tax monies are allocated is linked to how vital those services are seen to be. And libraries offer vital services.
Libraries support authors
There is a close and almost symbiotic relationship between libraries and authors. Many libraries host author events, which can lead to an increase in library visitors and book sales. A triple win for authors, libraries, and readers.
Another library bonus for authors comes each time a book is borrowed.
When you borrow a book from a library in Canada or the United Kingdom, the author earns money. In the United States, traditionally published and self-published authors only get royalties when their books are purchased for the library collection. Each time you borrow a book or request a copy of a book for your local library, you also support authors.
Books straight to you in seconds
Many libraries have ebooks. When you borrow an ebook you can read it through your library’s chosen ebook reader app like BorrowBox, CloudLibrary, Libby, etc. A few clicks on your ereader device and you’re reading a new book in seconds. Even if the library is closed. If you have an ereader, an internet connection, and a working library card, you can download a new ebook at midnight and read away. Who needs sleep?
Community events and support
Libraries are not limited to books. Many libraries perform useful services for the public beyond providing books. Other services the library can provide include:
computer use.
internet access.
photocopying and printing.
DVD rental.
event space for local groups.
educational events and classes.
But if we don’t use the library, we could lose it. So we need to show the powers that be that we need the library by showing our support for the library.
How to support your library
Join the library
Show that the money from taxes is still needed by increasing the membership statistics. Joining the library can be super simple. Find out how to join your local library by visiting your nearest branch or contacting them to ask about joining the library.
Use the library
Don’t limit your membership to a name-only statistic. Being a member of your local library can give you access to books, computers, free wi-fi, magazines, and more. Book and item borrowing statistics are measured and monitored. The more you use the library, the more it will be seen as the vital service it is.
Attend library events
Other than author events, libraries also host book clubs and local community events. Footfall, ticket sales, and requests to use the library spaces are also measured to determine the future needs of the library. Plus, you might make some great connections with fellow library users.
Donate your time
Your local library needs volunteers. Some have a Friends of the Library volunteer program you can join or offer volunteer opportunities on their website.
These are some of the ways you can support your library.
And there’s another bonus in it for you.
Book not found? 3 steps to requesting a Library book
Being an active member of your local library also means that you get a say in what your library stocks.
If you can’t find a book you want using the library catalogue, your library might still be able to make that book available to you.
1. Check your Library stock and ask about interlibrary loans
Search your library catalog for the book you want to see if it’s in stock or on order. If you can’t access your library catalog, ask a librarian to look for you. If your local library doesn’t have the book, they might be able to borrow it from other libraries as an interlibrary loan.
2. Request a book
If the book isn’t available at all, you can ask the library to purchase the book for their collection. Some libraries ask you to complete a form at the library or online. Other libraries may allow you to request the book in person, by phone or by email.
The information the library usually asks for is:
Title
Author
Series name (only if the book is part of a series)
ISBN
Format
You can usually find this information on the author’s website, shop or from an online bookstore.
3. Request denied? Try again later
If the library declines your request, you can still try again later. This time, ask fellow library users to make the same request. If multiple people ask for the same book, there’s a better chance that the book will be ordered by the library.
Libraries are places of learning, discovery, and community.
Now you’ve learned how to support your library, what will you discover next?