A Library card is more than a way to borrow books. It can replace purchases, rentals and subscriptions throughout the year. The biggest savings come from using several benefits regularly and many are available from home.
Borrow Instead of Buy
- Newspapers: Palm Beach Post, Sun Sentinel, New York Times and more.
- Magazines on Flipster: Rolling Stone, People, Vogue and other popular titles.
- Books, e-books, audiobooks and comics.
Stream Without Another Bill
- Movies and shows with hoopla and Kanopy.
- Music with Freegal.
Learn Something New
- Free courses with Udemy.
- Explore Creativebug® and Transparent Language.
- Build job skills or try a new hobby.
Take Your Card Out for the Day
- Explorer’s Pass offers free admission to cultural venues.
- Reserve early; availability varies.
Make the Savings Stick
- Search Library collections first.
- Set reminders for holds and reservations.
- Ask a librarian which resource fits your needs.
Even More Value
- Mobile Hotspot Lending.
- Historical Archives.
- Research databases.
- STEM kits and birding backpacks.
- Activities and technology help.
One Card. Countless Stories. What Could You Save?
This sample year uses modest comparison prices to show how routine library use can add up.
Example use |
Value |
|---|---|
| 12 adult books + 12 e-books | $384 |
| 12 audiobooks | $119 |
| 24 movies | $96 |
| 12 magazines | $60 |
| 12 adult programs | $180 |
| 4 museum passes | $80 |
Potential savings |
$919 |
Source: American Library Association Library Value Calculator, ilovelibraries.org/calculator. Actual savings vary.
Start Saving Today!
Check the Library before paying for another subscription.
Apply at pbclibrary.org/librarycard.
Bring photo ID and proof of current address when applying in person.
