10 free resources you can access with a library card in 2026
The best third place out there, your local library!
The original list was originally included in my issue on third spaces. I think this list is very valuable and wanted to give it’s own space, as well as refresh it.
Aside from being my favorite third space and functioning as a sanctuary for many people, libraries also offer a huge range of free resources that you can access with your library card.
10 free resources you can access with a library card in 2025
Free access to audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, zines, and more via Libby. I went crazy when I found out about this and read 22 books on Libby in 2022. Their selection is pretty wide and up-to-date. The only downside is that the most popular books usually have a long waitlist. If you get lucky some books get freed unexpectedly, and you receive a notification to take them early. Hoopla is a nice alternative to Libby. Based on my research, it is easier to get books in Hoopla, since the wait time to get books is not as long.
Free access to films, shows, and shorts via Kanopy. I was very happy to find out that they have a very up-to-date selection of movies that you can stream on any device.
Access to more than 16,000 free courses on LinkedIn Learning. This is a big one since some specific courses here can be expensive. They not only have business courses but also some very nice creative courses on creative writing, photography, and graphic design.
Access to new and archived New York Times content.
Free music (an alternative to Spotify or Apple Music) via Naxos Music. Honestly, I have been considering this option since I learned Spotify supported you know who’s campaign. Will keep you posted!
Access to creative online courses via CreativeBug. A free alternative to Coursera. I found a pretty cool collage course that I am looking forward to enrolling in.
Regular book sales where you can find gems for great prices. This might be unique to my local library, but our main branch hosts an annual sale where you can buy books for 1 dollar. I am pretty sure your library hosts something similar and you can get your hands on pretty good titles for little money.
Study room areas, quiet rooms, and fully equipped computer labs. Plus air conditioning on the hot days of summer!
Free programs, classes, and workshops on topics like career development. My local library hosts weekly English courses, writing workshops, etc. I am looking to get more involved in the program this year, and also seek volunteer opportunities.
Listen to audiobooks via Blackstone.
Additional perks:
Free Wifi ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Access to a computer with programs like Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Cloud, and more.
Cultural events like writer’s readings, and book clubs!
Print media such as magazines or art books.
Zines. My local library has the BEST selection of zines from local and international artists.
It offers an opportunity to network with new people or find out about grants.
A pretty cool section of kid’s books, which is one of the areas I go to when I am looking for inspiration outside of the internet.
Public services like tax help, financial literacy, job search, health resources, etc!
Access to local archives, maps, and historical documents.
Borrow video games. Yes! You read that right. Some libraries are so cool they let you borrow video games.
Meeting Rooms. Many libraries let you reserve meeting rooms in advance. A nice alternative to coworking spaces that can be pricy.
Free scanning and printing!
Free programs for children, from story time to workshops or educational games.
More perks, from the readers of apartamento 710
“My library offers national park passes you can check out!” -Bianca
“The libraries in my Canadian city give users access to the ideaMILL which provides patrons will all sorts of equipment such as sewing machines, instruments, electric tools, recording booth, 3D printer, etc). My favourite thing is asking library staff for recommendations tailored to my interests”. -Erin Meagan
“My library lets you access Ancestry.com for free!” -Kari Koty
“I recently went to a Valentine's Day Cursive Handwriting workshop at a library near me. It was so cute, fun, and FREE” -Gabby
“i work at a public library and my favorite thing about my job is getting to plan and host programs 🥰 some of our library branches also have makerspaces, where you can use sewing machines, Cricuts, and 3D printers for free!!” -Reagan Young
“Our library system is doing an event right now where you have to collect stamps from each library in the system and despite being a long time library lover, i’m learning so much about the perks I didn’t even know we had. One of our libraries has TONIES for rent, and my four year old is thrilled” -Caitlin McGuire
“Love this post!! Some libraries also offer Rosetta Stone for free too :)” -Mikayla Kimes
“I looked up what services my local library has and found out they lend instruments!! Jacqueline-de-repentigny public library for any montrealers” -book burd
Do you know of any other perks of having a library card? Please let me know in the comments. And always remember to support and respect these precious third spaces that make our communities richer.
My library has digital museum passes, which gives access to museums for free or at a discount!
Having fun isn’t hard when you got a library card! 🤓