Recently, I discovered that my local library loans out puzzles. I had no idea! I just started on the puzzle journey as an occasionally nighttime activity. Puzzles are a great way to relax, unwind, clear your mind and put together something beautiful at the end of the day.
The ability to now check them out from the library gives me endless opportunities to explore a variety of puzzles. Plus, I’m not spending a dime to do so! And others can enjoy the same experience after me. It’s a fantastic example of reuse and recycle at its finest.
I’ve also gotten into the habit of donating my gently used puzzles to the library when I’m finished. This way everyone in our community can enjoy them. Because really, unless I’m framing it, it would otherwise sit on my shelf or maybe get passed along to one other puzzle lover, if I knew one!
Shared Resources Save Money and Spare Clutter
This is what our local library are best at. Purchasing an item that can then be shared within the community. This gives each book, each puzzle, each film and other goods a full life span.
It also gives us a lot less clutter in our homes and a way to save plenty of cash on resources. Many people enjoy the same items over and over without everyone needing to buy and store a separate copy.
But wait, you say, “I want a copy!” Do you really need one? The library gives you a chance to experience the item without committing to it. Read the book via the library borrowing system first. If you adore it and want to enjoy it over and over again without leaving your home, then great! Purchase a copy later when it goes on sale.
Wait, There’s More!
Have you visited all your local libraries lately? You might want to check out their websites and then head over. Many libraries now have creative spaces with tools like Cricut machines, 3D printers, sew machines, video equipment and more. Why buy any of these tools when you can test them at the library first?
Or if we want to be completely honest…, do you really need to buy that creative tool? How many times have you purchased a craft item that simply wound up collecting dust later? If you want to create, test out the library resource first. If you love it and see yourself building a budding craft business, it’s easy enough to buy the tool later.
Most modern libraries also have computers, play areas, and some even have lounge spaces for relaxing or taking time to enjoy flipping through a magazine on the outdoor patio.
By sharing these resources, we eliminate the need for endless technology to wind up cluttering our basement storage, or worse, our landfills. Access over ownership is a great way to be a good steward of the earth.
Lesser-Known Resources
Libraries have budgets to bring in experts. Last month I attended a workshop with a professional actor who mesmerized the audience with his short play. This was Broadway caliber for free admission, and we learned a lot about local history in the process, too.
Our local libraries also offer craft classes, budgeting seminars, and game nights, too. There’s family movie nights, themed celebrations, and hobby classes like birdwatching, as well.
One resources your librarian might love for you to know about is seed swaps and lending, too. Often libraries have a collection of native and popular seeds you can “borrow” indefinitely! Meaning you’ll receive seeds for your garden, and you never have to return them, you simply get to enjoy fresh flowers, herbs and produce. Other libraries host seed swapping dates where you can come and exchange seeds with local gardeners. Either way, it’s a wonderful sustainable living experience.
Local libraries often have book fairs, too. So, if you want to build up your resource library at home, it’s a very inexpensive and fun way to do so.
Bottom line: Your local library is a fantastic sustainable living resource. Be sure to stop in and find out ways you can help support the effort and utilize the resources!
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