1. Databases
I have put my favorite up at the top. Databases were one of my best friends when I was in graduate school. I used them to find the information I needed for research papers. The best part is that you can often use them without actually going to the library. Databases combine the credibility of published materials with the ease of computer search. Instead of poring over the Reader’s Guide to Periodical Literature, you can enter a few search terms in a database and find lots of useful information. By using databases, you can find past news articles, journal articles, and other reference material, even if your library does not own a print copy.

2. Periodicals
This is one feature that I rarely use, except when I’m doing research. However, if you have time to go to the library and do some reading there, you could check out the periodicals and save yourself some subscription fees.

3. Computers
Our library has computers and wireless internet. I have only used this resource once—when the power went out at my house, so my internet was down!

4.  Programs for kids
My library offers all kinds of kids’ events. Currently, I’m not making any use of these programs, since I have no children. However, if I was a stay-at-home mom, I think I would be thrilled to take my children to the library for a free activity!

5. Programs for teens and adults
My library offers a summer reading program for teens, homework help, and a special section for teens (in the main library). For adults, there’s classic movie night, computer classes, Spanish class, special seminars, and book discussion groups.

6. Online resources

• Online card catalog: When I go to the library, I usually want specific books, or at least books on a particular topic. I use the online card catalog to find out if the library has the items I need.

• Book request form: If the library doesn’t have a book that I want, I can request it online.

• Online book renewals: If my book is due back at the library, but I haven’t finished reading it, I can renew it online.

7. Reference
The reference section more than just a special room with encyclopedias. It is your portal to all sorts of useful information, some of which is not available anywhere else. Reference sections usually have helpful librarians who can give suggestions about where you can find the information you are looking for.  Sometimes you can even ask a librarian to find information for you!

8.  Audio/Visuals
There’s no need to rent a DVD when you can borrow one from the library! The Greenville County Library System has several branches, and I have found that the smaller branches tend to have better DVDs, even though the selection is smaller. I think this is because more people visit the main branch, so all of the popular DVDs get checked out. They also have videos and CDs.

9. Book sales
Want cheap books that you can keep? Many libraries have period book sales. Greenville Library has one coming up October 24-26.

10. Comfy reading spots
Naturally, the library is a great place to study. Even you if you are not a student, you might enjoy reading in a clean, well-lit, and quiet environment.

Save money and save trees! Use your library.

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