Book it to the library this April and take advantage of all they have to offer.

We’re lettering you in on a little secret: the public library has so much more to check out than just books. Here are the headlines:

Museum Passes

Explore Illinois with free or discounted passes to museums, zoos, science centers, and even sporting events! You may even be able to make camping reservations or acquire discounted permits. 

Explore More Illinois

Things

Some libraries have a “library of things,” where you can check out everything from air fryers to sanders. Chicago itself has a dedicated tool library, with thousands of tools “from drills to ice cream makers” for you to rent—free!

Electronics 

Check out a Chromebook, hotspot, gaming console, or even a VR headset (depending on the library). Own a game console? Checkout games to play without having to buy new ones!

Don’t forget: You can save on streaming services if you check out DVDs (so retro, right?).

E-books and Audio

Have a Kindle? Ditch the Amazon prices and read as much as you want with free e-books from the library! You can also listen to books without paying those Audible premiums. Happy listening!

Board Games

If you’re into game nights, you know new board games aren’t cheap. But with a library card, you can check out a game, host a fabulous party, then return it—never having spent a dime. 

You can usually find puzzles, too, which is the perfect one-time-use item to get from the library.

Musical Instruments

Curious about the guitar? Wanna take a whack at some bongos? Checking these items out from the library is a great way to try out a potential new passion—maybe you’ll hate it! 

Telescopes

Have a budding astrologist in your home? Explore the night sky with a telescope, for free. 

Don’t forget: we’ll experience a total eclipse in some parts of the country on April 8!

Books

Of course, no library list would be complete without the star of the show: BOOKS!

Treat yourself to a hot beverage and a stroll through your local library. In case you need inspiration, remember that your library has whole sections on: 

• Travel

• Cooking

• Hobbies

• Magazines

• Interior design 

• Gardening 

Make it a goal to hang out in your local library this month, and be sure to thank your librarian on National Librarian Day, April 16!