A few other things that Courtney didn't mention is
- Magazines and Newspapers -
Try accessing those normally paywalled articles and news sites using your library. Some will have online agreements that unlock that premium content when you're using a library connection. If not, most libraries have stacks of those same print publications available.
My library growing up used to put the newspapers on these big old swinging arms arranged like shopping for carpets but they were from all over the place. I can still remember the sound of folks rifling through them.
- Music -
If you are a music nerd, the library can be an invaluable resource. Not only will they have a treasure trove of CDs and maybe even some DVD live performances, but they are THE place to find free access to that one specific recording of a track you're looking for. (ex. Gustav Holst's Planets performed by the London Symphony Orchestra in 2001 @ the Sydney Opera House.) It can be especially handy for older artists/recordings that would have predated digital. (Love em or hate em, the old analog media formats degrade over time, and your library likely has access to a digital archive for preservation purposes).
- Access to Miscellaneous Online Libraries and Repositories -
If you imagine it, your local library might just have access to it online.
I'm talking about all those paywalled Stock photo libraries, royalty-free music or other digital assets, 3d printer files, or access to databases, research, science or medical journals... Try to use your library card instead of your credit card anytime a professional organization is controlling access to their resources.
A few other things that Courtney didn't mention is
- Magazines and Newspapers -
Try accessing those normally paywalled articles and news sites using your library. Some will have online agreements that unlock that premium content when you're using a library connection. If not, most libraries have stacks of those same print publications available.
My library growing up used to put the newspapers on these big old swinging arms arranged like shopping for carpets but they were from all over the place. I can still remember the sound of folks rifling through them.
- Music -
If you are a music nerd, the library can be an invaluable resource. Not only will they have a treasure trove of CDs and maybe even some DVD live performances, but they are THE place to find free access to that one specific recording of a track you're looking for. (ex. Gustav Holst's Planets performed by the London Symphony Orchestra in 2001 @ the Sydney Opera House.) It can be especially handy for older artists/recordings that would have predated digital. (Love em or hate em, the old analog media formats degrade over time, and your library likely has access to a digital archive for preservation purposes).
- Access to Miscellaneous Online Libraries and Repositories -
If you imagine it, your local library might just have access to it online.
I'm talking about all those paywalled Stock photo libraries, royalty-free music or other digital assets, 3d printer files, or access to databases, research, science or medical journals... Try to use your library card instead of your credit card anytime a professional organization is controlling access to their resources.