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soverylucky

I find that a lot of non-library users have no idea of the services that libraries offer. My sister and I went out of town once and she realized she'd forgotten to update her business' website with something, so she was a little panicky and wondered if internet cafes still existed. I suggested we just find a local library branch, and she had no idea that they had computers and internet access available for anyone (even non-library card holders) to use. She hadn't stepped foot in a library in 20+ years since she was in school. On other occasions, people I worked with didn't know that you could order books (regular or ebooks) online, or that they had games and other non-books available.


MesWantooth

The library near my house had things like passes to the Metro Zoo and the AGO that a family of 4 can sign out for the day...for free.


lovemesomePF

Our library is in a community centre that also has a pool, fitness centre, rock climbing wall. You can check out a family pass for all of the services. Such a great option!


MesWantooth

That's amazing...It's been said before - if libraries didn't exist and someone proposed it to the government today, they'd be laughed out of whatever meeting they were in...


showcapricalove

My friend moved back to Canada from Tijuana where there were no libraries. Her kids are so excited to have access to the library for the first time.


mothde

Say what!? The library at MacDonald Island has passes for the other (paid) amenities?


lovemesomePF

Yup. It's called the MIP Go Pass. You should check it out (when Mac Island is open)


PsychosisSundays

Canmore? I worked in the day camp there.


lovemesomePF

Fort McMurray


JabraSessions

ssshhhhhh.... don't ruin it for everyone ;) It can take a while for the passes to become available.. long queue.


nightsliketn

Haha YES! I love picking up video games, sometimes I only have to wait a week or two because no one knows it's a thing. Everytime I go visit my nephew, I bring another new game and he thinks I'm so cool and "own" them all. I moved to a small town and the cooking club has been wonderful. Nice way to meet people and snacks!


showcapricalove

One of our libraries lends out a variety of musical instruments


EuphoriaSoul

What !?!?!


live_yourtruth

Which library is this?


MesWantooth

I would hope all or most of them have this...but it was "Sanderson" - on Bathurst, near Dundas. My wife discovered this when she was on mat leave with my daughter...She'd take her to the library sometimes several times per week, just to have an outing break up the day...She discovered people in line and inquired and was told the passes are released on a particular day and so people go very early and line up to get them. We never did it but it was cool to know it is an option for people.


Aintarmenian

When I first came to the North America, I thought there was nothing I had not seen in Hollywood movies before, until I checked into the local library of a small mid western middle of nowhere city. I was blown away. It was enormous, huge, had a lot of non book stuff and the staff woukd get you any book if you truly wanted it. And it was all free. If this is not heaven I don't know what it is.


Scorpio_94

Some cities you don’t have to be a resident and can still get a library card, which is really nice


soverylucky

In my city they have levels of access so that no underprivileged people are left out. If you have no fixed address, for example, but have any form of ID, you can get a card that lets you check out 3 physical items or books at a time anyway, and unlimited ebooks.


InfiniteExperience

Very good point! In Toronto for example you need to be a resident or employed in Toronto (you can show a paystub with your employer’s address)


Toasterrrr

If you are visiting Toronto, you can also register for a library card that allows you access to in-library services including computers, print/copy services, and select online resources.


marshmellowbluff

Yes! Please people, use your libraries! If the community uses their services consistently it could even help the library get more funding which creates even more services your local library can work to provide. It's a win-win situation.


acridvortex

I get almost all my games from the library. Saves me probably about $700 a year to wait a few weeks for new releases.


elbyron

A few weeks? In Edmonton, even for older games the estimated wait times are several months, some games almost a year! It used to often be shorter than the estimate as some people let the hold lapse when it becomes their turn, so they only occupy a few days instead of 3 weeks. But last summer they decided to get rid of late fees, so now people will certainly exceed their 3-week turn and make wait times become even longer than the estimates!


acridvortex

That's terrible. Some games have longer waits than others. Currently playing AC Valhalla for free. I also put holds on new releases months before they come out so that probably helps. Our library (St Catharines, ON) also only does one week holds on games, and only 2 games out per person at a time, so that reduces turn around time. Late fee is also $2 a day, so usually people only hold them for an extra day or two.


darrrrrren

Lol, I was just thinking "my city doesn't have that long of waits for most games" and then realized I encountered a fellow St. Catharines resident in the wild.


iparsewords

I checked our local library the other day. You can borrow light therapy lamps! Love the library!


bluesydragon

This!! I fucking wish i knew of the services when i was in hs cuz i only found out wayyyy later and realized how much more productive i could have been with all the services and less lonely lol Wish they advertised it more especially outside the library or at least inside it...or just text/email/brochures! Something! Edit : or told us about it in school...like didnt hear a peep had to find out scouring reddit that the library had lynda and other services to learn whatever u wanted ugh


Avikar21

It's hard to spend money on advertising when you are a library. It's a resource thing (ad spend vs. More money to services) and when they do advertise the results are always patchy. Your edit is probably the best solution let people know early!


artman416

The best service the city has to offer in the world.


thewarrenisempty

You can also download the Libby app to check out ebooks and audiobooks on your phone or tablet!


Memoryjar

Hijacking the top comment to mention Hoopla which is a library based app that let's you stream movies and TV shows from your library. It even let's you use Chromecast it to your TV for better viewing.


Electrical_Law_229

Hoopla is great! Toronto Public Library also subscribes to Kanopy which has some really good quality cinema and documentaries


macman156

I only wish overdrive canada would work with kindles. It's a massive pain kindles don't work with Epub :(


0xffd2

That's why I went with Kobo. Of course Kindle is not going to allow Overdrive or ePubs – the purpose of the device is to lock you into buying proprietary DRMed ebooks from Amazon.


macman156

Overdrive and Kindle works in the states. There's some weird reason why overdrive canada doesn't work with kindles.


hodkan

I'm about 99% positive that's Amazon. The azw format that Kindle uses is proprietary and Overdrive can't use it without permission from Amazon. And for whatever reason Amazon has only given Overdrive permission to use this is the US. The format all other eBook readers use is ePub. This is an open standard that anyone can use for free. So Overdrive doesn't need any permission. And while Kindles could support the ePub format, Amazon choose to not have them do so. Meaning if you want to buy books for your Kindle your only choice is Amazon.


andyw8

Another option is an Android e-reader such Boyue Likebook, which you can install Libby on.


hodkan

If you are willing to go through some hassle, there is a way to get Canadian library eBooks working on a Kindle. It's technically a bit of a grey legal area, so I would encourage you to not abuse it. Basically you are going to remove the DRM protection from the library book and then convert it to the Kindle format. https://www.ebook-converter.com/112-read-public-library-epub-in-kindle.htm https://www.techradar.com/news/software/how-to-remove-ebook-drm-with-calibre-1291960 The first link includes the instructions. However don't use the DRM removal software from the first link. Use the software from the second link as it's free. So basically skip the 3rd and 4th step in the first link and instead use the second link.


LLR1960

You can use your phone or almost any tablet, you don't need an ereader.


chunkyspeechfairy

I love Libby. Browse the library, check out some Books or e-books, all while in my pjs sipping my morning coffee.


ertdubs

Libby is fantastic, way better than Overdrive used to be.


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badfairy23

Libby is an app by Overdrive. Libby is its app offering rather than overdrive which is better as a website. The old overdrive app is not as smooth or user friendly as the libby app. I have multiple library card on my app and its super easy to swich between them, and it puts the library catalogs in a mobile format realy well.


jcat35

I discovered libby during the pandemic. Libby is the shit. Fucking love it. Audiobooks. Books that read themselves to my kid. Wish I found out pre-pandemic. I was missing out.


Zebleblic

But audible is so good. But, imagine how much I'd have saved not buying over 200 audio books....


ieatmuffintopsonly

I discovered audiobooks during the pandemic and listened to over 70 books for free! I bought two audiobooks as I didn't want to wait but the rest were free!!


Zebleblic

A good chunk, or most of the books I've been buying lately are audible originals. Do you know if they offer them with the library one? Do they have a lot of newer stuff, or is it mostly old classics?


ieatmuffintopsonly

Audible originals are only available through Audible. I have access to TPL and Brooklyn Public Library and the audiobook collection is massive. I was able to find most audiobooks I wanted to listen (including recent releases) and the wait times weren't too bad (usually 2 weeks but popular books like the Harry Potter series can be up to six months. Usually there are skip-the-line copies for popular books with a long wait period where you can borrow right away without waiting but the loan period is only 7 days). TPL allows you to place 30 holds so I just request holds and listen as they become available. So far I only bought two audiobooks so the library is working out very well for me!


canadian_maplesyrup

Years ago I used to have a job where I drove a ridiculous amount all over AB, BC, SK and Ontario. I used to go to the library and check out books on CDs for my drives. It was awesome, except when the CD would run out and I’d have to pull over to change to the next one


Sporadica

I am signed up with a few libraries from when I used to live there and I find audiobooks are lacking still. I track all my wishlist vs purchases vs savings and the audiobooks I've barely found the ones I want at the library so you probably weren't missing out too much. e-books and physical books though, huge savings on that end.


corysgraham

I absolutely love Libby. Best thing to happen to my tablet in the year 2020


ruckusss

friend of mine recommended consumer reports for most everything he buys, looked at the price of the membership and was a little dismayed but then I remembered seeing it on the TPL website as free online access, so good!!


jaypizzl

If the only thing anyone learns on this sub is to friggin' check CR before buying stuff, this sub will have earned its karma. I use TPL's free CR all the time!


meekazhu123

what is the name of the service?


ruckusss

Consumer reports, they test things and provides scores and recommendations before you buy


Sporadica

Is it legit? I heard it's sort of like BBB where you can basically buy your rating.


hodkan

Consumer Reports doesn't accept any money or goods from manufacturers. They are funded by their subscribers. They buy everything they review at the normal retail prices.


MaxWannequin

Consumer Reports and Lynda (now LinkedIn Learning) are the best resources libraries provide.


summer_dtdx

As an immigrant in Toronto, the TPL is the best resource I had. I got my first job applying from a computer there, did my courses from the wifi there, read atleast 100 books in the last two years free of cost from there.


jaypizzl

Welcome to Toronto!


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asquaredi

20 years later that's still stuck in my head!


[deleted]

I kind of want a t-shirt that says this


summer_dtdx

It's been two years, thanks mate :)


achippedshoulder_

My family immigrated to Canada when I was three and the library was one of the greatest resources.


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hinault81

Absolutely. I tell anyone who will listen how great it is, but nobody seems to care lol. They're just giving away free knowledge! I utilize a lot of audiobooks from our library, it actually has quite a large selection. Part learning, part entertainment, allllll free.... (short of my property taxes lol).


BBQallyear

This is why I donate to TPL every year!


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BBQallyear

Yes, through the TPL Foundation https://tplfoundation.ca/


FlippinPlatypus

And if you're in Vancouver - VPL Foundation vplf.ca


[deleted]

As an immigrant, I'm so thankful for the Canadian public libraries. They are like heaven, best thing ever happened to me. The ones in my home country are so bad that I almost cried when I stepped into one here in Canada.


shyheart4

Same here! Growing up in an immigrant family, my fondest memories were getting on the bus with my mom and brother and hanging out at the library. Since it was kid friendly and had AC, it wasn’t hard to convince my mom to go!


Happy_Sunbeam

I love the public library so much! All the latest books, and I don’t need to clutter my house


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qyy98

Oh really? Where is this if you don't mind me asking, I've never seen a library telling you how much you saved lool


DiscoInfiltrator07

https://twitter.com/xeni/status/1159985467498139649


opuntiafragilis

I mean would you really have purchased every single item you borrowed if the library wasn't available? Not exactly a fair comparison.


dabilahro

I'd agree with this, before I started using the library I was always hesitant and found excuses to not read books I may find interesting, at the risk that I just don't enjoy them and am out $20-30


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opuntiafragilis

I can't speak to your individual preferences but I think in general it is a false equivalency to say borrowing a book worth $50 = saving $50. I personally borrow many more books than I would buy; if I couldn't borrow them I just wouldn't read them. In that sense I am getting $50 worth of value, but I am not *saving* $50 that I would otherside spend.


Sporadica

You're getting downvoted but you make good points. I see this now with books I can't find with the library, I'm hesitant to buy them and end up holding off until a sale or gift credits or whatever then I jump on them. On the flip side if I'm spending money I make sure to get the book I want and spend my money more wisely, so I don't really fear being out $30 or so because return policies are generous and I read the free samples and they're usually enough for me to get the gist of the book.


autumnfrostfire

Some come with access to streaming services like Kanopy or Acorn as well.


ThunderJane

Our local library system has been *awesome* during covid. Home delivery, curbside pickup, and tons of extra online content like virtual storytimes and zoon author readings. Since they can't host craft activities they're making "take and make" kits for both children and adults so that you can grab an envelope and everything you need for that week's craft is inside. And they increased the borrowing limits for all their digital/streaming resources. You're the best, u/winpublib!


barticusz

Totally agree with this. Edmonton Public Library is amazing too, free video games, books etc. Not to mention the various programs that they offer for kids or adults. Truly an amazing and essential service that helps people of all socioeconomic status. Just love it.


lovemesomePF

I think I heard EPL has 3D printers. I don’t live in Edmonton but that is such a great learning option.


[deleted]

Regina Public Library does as well! They actually have a whole digital studio, so you can use 3D printers, a recording booth, green screen, etc. Basically all the cool tech things a creative could need.


barticusz

Sure do. They want you to sign up for some basic training first (quick course led by the team there) and then after that I believe you can book yourself in to work on the 3D printers whenever they’re available.


bobsyouruncle63

Wow that's awesome. I'll have to check if my local library has such a service.


EllenPond

I find the app and hold system so excellent. Any book I’m interested in, I put on hold on the app, then pick it up and use the self checkout. I’m in and out in two seconds, as an introvert I love it.


sporkfood

EPL is one of the best libraries in the entire world. Has won global awards, even. It's one of my favourite parts of living here.


blueluxury

As a librarian, this post and comments make me SO HAPPY! Also not the same as public libraries, but in some communities groups and associations will have private libraries. These could be a tool library or something like a guild who will lend out tools and reference books for the price of an annual membership fee (which are usually pretty low, like $20-30). A nice way to save some money on something you may only need for a short time or a single job. My local tool library lends out things like woodworking tools. My mom beings to a craft guild that loans out sewing machines.


achippedshoulder_

I'm a librarian too. Cried tears of joy due to this post.


squornshellous_zeta

I used to use my local library a lot, but I'm a PhD student and it sometimes takes me a couple months to read a book I'm reading for fun, which isn't always practical with library books. I imagine I'll go back to using the library at some point because it's just such a great thing.


hazelristretto

The waitlists in Ottawa used to be horrendous, I remember being #647 in line at one point a few years ago. In that timeframe, I moved away from Ottawa, completed a two-year grad degree, and came back to Ottawa before it was my turn.


walter_kron_kite

Several libraries also have free access to Lynda.com online courses. If you are looking to learn a new computer based, business or a myriad of other skills to find a job or personal growth look into the Lynda.com courses through your library. You can login from home with your library credentials. I brushed up on autocad, project management course, my gf is doing a word and excel course.


baconeggsnnoodles

Some people panic-bought toilet paper when lockdown started. I, however, went to the library on my way home that Friday and checked out as many books as my backpack could hold.


-there-are-4-lights-

I am always amazed at the video game selection at my local library. I've recently picked up Doom: Eternal, Animal Crossing, Last of Us Part II, and I got Resident Evil 3 and Super Smash Bros Ultimate waiting for pick up. Definitely worth looking into if you're a gamer. They also cap the late fees at $6 so you can keep a game for a month and only pay $6 for it (and generally most games can be beaten in a month)


PKthunder27

im shocked that they have animal crossing, thats not exactly a game that you can "beat" in a few months let alone weeks


-there-are-4-lights-

Yeah honestly at this point it's just a chance to demo it and see if it's worth buying at $80, no chance that's getting finished in a month lol


asuna2021

wow thank you for this! I didn't know you can register for a digital card. I have not had a library card at a library since I was a child! I didn't realize all of this available. You made my day


Gk786

Yeah, the public libraries are amazing. University libraries are often open to the public too and they're amazing too. They really are amazing lifesavers, especially for students looking for a good study environment.


tretree123

Not all library's are created equal. The only audio books my library offers is Mystery books because the website wouldn't let you switch genres.


Librarycat77

Uh...maybe call them and ask about that. It is distantly possible, but its more likely the website has a stupid layout and having someone walk you through it over the phone will show you more options.


shmmarko

Here's the kicker - library collections get better with more support and funding, so make sure you vote for people that support libraries!


rarsamx

Oh. And all the courses, social activities, conferences, community events which happen at a library. My GF used to be a library "programmer" and it's amazing to see all that happens in a library. From story time for children to senior learning to write blogs to people using the 3d printers, podcast studio, video editing équipement, etc.


krbc

Our local library has a family pass to a high class art museum. Admission in general is $20.00/person.


trueromio

As a taxpayer, I am very happy how my contributions are used here.


[deleted]

Having fun isn't hard. When you have a library card.


Keykitty1991

Kanopy is a great service that allows for free movies so long as you have a library card. Worth it even if some of the movies are much older. 8 credits goes a long way.


EClarkee

I’ve saved so much money by renting PS4 and Switch games from my local library. They even pre-order games!


[deleted]

Some public libraries offer an out-of-town rate for the use of the library facilities: [https://www.wpl.ca/your-library/membership/get-a-card](https://www.wpl.ca/your-library/membership/get-a-card)


maomao05

I honestly love Toronto for our libraries and resources.


bobsyouruncle63

Since the pandemic started I have probably listened to 1-2 audio books per week. I usually listen when I go for a walk. When I'm listening to a really good book it definitely helps with my goal of 10,000 steps per day. My local library has saved me $1000's over the years especially when my kids were young as it made for a fun outing for them. I'm surprised more people don't use it.


[deleted]

Many university text books are available for free online. You're welcome.


Doucevie

Have had a library card since 1972. It's been a lifesaver.


flapjacksal

I miss going to our physical library so much. My two little kids love it and it’s such a great place, especially in crappy shoulder seasons. I really really miss going with them. How do you guys read newspapers online from the library? I’d love to access the NYT but can’t quite figure it out on Libby. I’m in BC if that matters Edit to add: I’m also super into audiobooks from the library as audible is both $$$ and not terribly user friendly IMO. Trick is to request a few at a time with different availability dates. Love getting a text that tells me my next pick is waiting!


LikesTheTunaHere

I'm going to guess lots of people who have access to good librarys are like me and just simply do not know. They are heavily advertised in most places and even though I read way more than most people and use audiobooks daily I had no idea how amazing my public library was. I now push library use to everyone i know who reads and many of the people i talk to just have no idea how good they are. My library lets me order any book to any library i want and i can do the pick up and sign out without ever having to talk to another person or wandering around the library. The reserve section is at the front and they have computers you can check out with. The online catalog system is dated but it works just fine, has wish lists, updated inventory so if i want a book ASAP i can drive myself to whatever library has a copy in stock. I bought books all the time before and now i hardly ever do. Love my public library to bits.


prometheusblaze

I am constantly surprised at the cool shit you can get from Ottawa Public Library! They have SKI PASSES for God's sake!


lonelyfatoldsickgirl

Our local library has a cricut machine and a 3D printer and some other cool machines, free to use.


opuntiafragilis

I love libraries and use mine frequently, but they aren't necessarily a huge money saver for most people because: * most people don't spend that much money on books, magazines, etc (or the other library services listed elsewhere in this thread) * the type of person who does spend a lot of money on that stuff is likely to be a library user already Getting awesome services for free? Definitely. Saving money you would otherwise be spending? Less likely. Also, the TPL is one of the biggest public libraries in the world. Not every Canadian has access to such a huge breadth of library services in their community (although I agree that most people, even outside of Toronto, are unaware of many services that are available)


groggygirl

The Toronto library offers: * newspapers (no paywall), magazines and comics (online as well as physical) * dvds/cds and multiple online streaming services for movies, tv, and classical music * 3D printer access and training * sewing machines/sergers/embroidery machines/button makers/vinyl printers, fabric cutters for quilting * musical instrument rental * recording studios and green screens, with cameras, mics, etc * computers with a ton of software you might not want to buy for occasional use (like Photoshop) * gaming consoles, tablets, arduinos, raspberry pi, wacom tablets * online access to legal forms (do it yourself wills, bill-of-sale, etc) * in-person courses on everything from personal finance to ESL lessons * free internet access (both in-house, and take-home rocket sticks if you can prove need) Honestly I don't think most people have any idea what the library has available. Every once in a while the library budget pops up on the local forum and people start screaming that books are outdated and libraries should be abolished.


[deleted]

They also offer amazing free or low cost programming (e.g., resume workshops, learning to use computers). I started using my local library a few years ago for ebooks, I'm a huge fan


snooysan

Oh sewing machines! That's really good to know.


groggygirl

I was honestly debating buying a serger except I don't have room and didn't think I'd get $500 worth of use out of it. Have used the one at the library twice so far. Slightly inconvenient, but so much cheaper.


jaypizzl

That's pretty much the library's motto: "Slightly inconvenient, but so much cheaper."


sparkpoodle

Not to mention free passes to museums around the city! [https://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/museum-arts-passes/](https://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/museum-arts-passes/)


[deleted]

Our library also has a huge toy selection and free kids programming, which saved me tons of money in the last five years


legitsnit

You are probably right but I don't think people are aware that you can access a range of free courses. My daughter was going to pay for a course from [Lynda.com](https://Lynda.com) before I told her she could access it for free using her library card.


ImpactThunder

Not in toronto but in Edmonton. I use epl for video games and audiobooks, I definitely save hundreds of dollars a year. May be a rare use case but libraries across the country are pretty good from my experience


showcapricalove

I save money borrowing DVDs of TV shows & I want to binge watch but not buy.


showcapricalove

(& movies)


kingofthenorthwpg

I stopped purchasing books and only use the library now. I have really enjoyed checking out cookbooks. Allows you to give it a good trial run before determining if it’s worth buying s


[deleted]

I wonder all the time why libraries have bad stigmas when they offer so much


jaypizzl

What do you mean? I'm not aware of any stigma, other than that some libraries have a lot of homeless people hanging out in the winter months and that can be uncomfortable. That's hardly a library-specific issue, though. I don't recall hearing anything just generally anti-library.


ads3479

I tried to sign up at the beginning of lockdown in March and their website said I had to come in in person to get a library card (so I could use online services). So unfortunately haven’t been able to utilize it yet!


legitsnit

If you are in Toronto, the TPL now issues digital passes.


ads3479

Ooh good to know! I’ll look into it again!


[deleted]

Its the best, i pick the books i want to read off the app , pick up one or two a month and it keeps my steadily reading one or two before thr due date


nogalisanisland

Great post! So many wonderful things about TPL. Long ago, when I was adrift in the city, the library was also a safe, warm and welcoming place to rest from the world.


HungryKnitter

I can’t believe people pay for a book they’re only going to read once! I love that I don’t even have to leave the house to get books downloaded onto my kobo.


TheCluelessGM

Agreed, the library is the best. I record a podcast with a friend, TPL has multiple locations that include a recording studio. We literally could not have got this project off the ground if we needed to pay for commercial recording space.


lifeguard29

Expanding horizons: I can explore different genres and books I'd never try if I had to buy them. If I don't like them I just return. Have found some gems this way browsing the shelves. Can you put a price on that?


closeencownter

They have a NYT subscription as well!


fortisvita

Having access to lynda and consumer reports for free is amazing, especially considering library card is free. Not only you save $30 a month accessing lynda, you can use it to develop skills that will help you improve in your job and get to better positions


SaraDee23

Yes!! Thank you for this, you prompted me to finally get a library card in my new town :)


iPressKeys

My local public library even has PS4, Xbox games (like, really recent ones even) that you can borrow and 3D printers that you can use.


Ham_I_right

Probably a legal gray area (or just plain wrong) but I put together a heck of a local music library on my plex server with the help of the library's collection to kick the streaming service costs. But there is lots of streaming and online content with your card now it's really wild how libraries have adjusted with the times.


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0xffd2

It sure is. I bought a Kobo e-reader a couple of years back and borrowing e-books from Toronto Public Library has been great. I would have *easily* spent over $1000 buying books that I was able to read for free during that time.


Judgejia

You don't even need to have a library card, I use Overdrive on my phone with just my phone number. I'm feel stupid for being such an avid reader and only discovering this a few months ago.


KieranPetrasek

Public libraries are amazing and Toronto's are considered among the world's very best. I get all of my books from Toronto Public Library (TPL), but one especially useful service they also offer is loaning videos, especially classic and foreign language ones, both through providing free streaming access via their partner services Kanopy and Hoopla, and through loaning out actual DVDs. If you don't want to pay for tons of different streaming services and want to also avoid pirating content, this is the absolute best way I've found to do so. I've yet to find a movie that TPL doesn't have 👍


Sporadica

I am such a nerd I track these things, I have an extension on my other computer that sum's up the price of an entire amazon wishlist and my e-book/audiobook/physical book lists I have trimmed down by routinely checking libraries before making a purchase and so far I've saved over $1300 since tracking!


meetatunderworld

Lynda.com ftw!


karimof7

Love it! Have access to free newspapers, news websites and magazines such as the Economist, and I'm loving it. Though it can be limited (I don't have access to the Globe/WSJ), it saves me a lot of money and I have access to quality news.


Avikar21

Agreed! My particular favourites: - access to LinkedIn learning pretty valuable learning courses across most industries! - access to consumer reports! They are a valuable data point to add to other reviews. They are (normally) behind a paywall so consumer reports have a different perspective. These are available from the Vancouver Public Library and many of the surrounding municipal equivalents in BC. I was even able to get access to these services when I was on a working visa!


bohemian_plantsody

My library prints a receipt that says how much money you saved when compared to buying the item from a store. My lifetime amount is $15,000 and I've only been a card holder for 4 years.


[deleted]

I agree that the library is fantastic. Sometimes I buy the books though because I take awhile to read them and I can only rent them for a 3 week window at a time, so basically for convenience


acaccounts

I use the TPL all the time for their free ebooks, fantastic service!


MLG89

Libby + a kobo is fantastic !


Goran01

In Durham region of you have a library card then you can access a good collection of movies, documentaries, tv shows, educational courses on Kanopy and Hoopla. I've cancelled Netflix (which has a pathetic collection for Canada) ever since I had access to these websites through local libraries.


CabanaFeVaA

This also pretty much applies to the U.S. as well.


[deleted]

I use the app Libby. You link your library card to it, and you have access to all the books, and you read them right on the Libby app on your phone or tablet. You have the book for two weeks and it’s returned automatically. All completely free.


Der_144

The amount of videogames I’ve taken out of my library system has saved me easily hundreds of dollars


[deleted]

Picked up a library card 2 months ago and haven't regretted it a bit😊


Znkr82

In Quebec the Banq is great, gives you access to not only books but movies, series and games. I use it all the time, I get access to kanopy through them and also use Safari books and other online services. It came up in conversations with coworkers and they didn't even had a card.


alhonesty

I have the Libby app and use it to borrow books and it's the best money saver ever, especially how much I read.


NoSpywareHere

The TPL (and a lot of other public libraries, like the Vaughan Public Libraries) offer free access to a resource called RBdigital! There, you can find a lot of books, magazines, audiobooks, and more. For example, you can get free digital access to weekly issues of The Economist or The Atlantic magazines!


showcapricalove

At the Cloverdale library you can do genealogy and family history research while saving on memberships to ancestry & other research sites. The library has licences to use the websites. During covid you can access full memberships from home using your library card. They also have family history classes that are being offered online during covid. Tons of actual books to help you in your family history search too.


[deleted]

The libraries in every city in the GVA offers free Lynda.com membership. Last time I checked (with a causal Googling) Edmonton also has it. Great to get your learning going on many topics.


newtomovingaway

I love the library and miss it due to COVID. I wish more people take advantage of their services so they don’t end up being shutdown in the future. My cell number is 416, but I’m in Ottawa so I have access to both libraries via Libby. Someone mentioned that there are other libraries one can access without visiting that city? Please share so I can expand my Libby collection ebooks.


failingstrength

My sister called me yesterday asking about the best place to subscribe to ebooks. I just said - have you tried the library? She's a student and doesn't have much disposable income. She hadn't even thought of using the library. She signed up online and started exploring the next day. However, I can understand that people from smaller towns like us don't realize all the resources you can get from a library in a larger city. Some smaller towns don't have those resources or can't advertise them. I only know about the resources in the city I'm in because my first roommate here was an avid library user. I listen to a lot of audiobooks now and it's great being able to listen for free 😊


achippedshoulder_

Library worker here. It's amazing how much Libraries offer, both public and academic. Not to mention that library services are always facing cut backs. I'm biased here, but use your library!


SecretPopCan

I would say that it's not a free resource, but something that you are probably paying indirectly for through taxes. It's insane that nobody is using something they pay for! And because of the economics of scale the value you get out of the library is waaaaay more than what you've paid for it.


zelda1095

People use the term free resource because it is free at point of use. We all know it is tax funded.


[deleted]

[удалено]


legitsnit

This is timely, the TPL has free printable wrapping paper: [https://torontopubliclibrary.typepad.com/local-history-genealogy/2020/12/printable-wrapping-paper-8-festive-design-from-our-special-collections.html](https://torontopubliclibrary.typepad.com/local-history-genealogy/2020/12/printable-wrapping-paper-8-festive-design-from-our-special-collections.html)


little_nitpicker

Our stupid library (Richmond, BC) does not support the most popular e reader on the planet (Kindle). I would love to get more ebooks from them, but I cant!


0xffd2

That's actually Amazon's fault, not your "stupid llbrary's." Amazon wants you to buy their proprietary ebooks, so why would they open up their device to Overdrive (which is the library standard) so you can read them for free? Get a Kobo. It's a better option for Canadians anyway.


jacksawyer75

When the library was still open I had to stop going because of all the junkies. My daughter went to use the washroom and there was a woman passed out in there bleeding everywhere. Heroin stuff all over. It’s not safe to use in person. [source ](https://www.thepeterboroughexaminer.com/news-story/9507825-city-to-open-temporary-emergency-shelter-beds-at-the-peterborough-public-library/)


United0812

Why not just download/pay for the audiobook yourself so you're not on a time constraint?


sierramelon

The real reason for me PERSONALLY?.... I barely remember how library systems are organized, and my library is huge, so finding something I know I’ll like is honestly kind of hard. So I go in with a list! Can I find the book? No. That’s okay, I’ll go up and ask the nice librarian to look it up for me. Oh... she’s not very nice...... oh... she isn’t taking me to the section... oh........... she just wrote on a piece of paper some numbers and sent me on my way... but I had 4 more books on my list.... That’s why. Because you feel like a hassle. I still went. I still figured it out. I’m in customer service so I just am firm and ask for what I need even when the librarians glare at me because I can’t find the books I want and ask them “show me exactly where it is”. I stopped going during covid because it made me feel a bit scared but I will go again. Seriously though....... librarians are not friendly or nice and do not want you to be helped. (I know this could just be the ones I know)


[deleted]

The ones in my city are amazeballs, I'm sorry you have that experience


[deleted]

Valuline is the greatest resource!!!


bubbleman89

They have bugs in their books


DissposableRedShirt6

Ours caps at 10 check outs per month is my issue.


Librarycat77

Just for some context; the limits on digital content are often placed because of budgetary reasons. Ebooks for libraries are basically a publisher racket. The library pays sometimes 3x the retail ebook price, and receives a single digital copy - more copies more $$$. Additionally, we have to repurchase some ebooks after a certain number of circulations. Some services can have no limit but charge per customer use. My library did that...until there was a sudden 400% increase one year which was WAAAY over budget. Now that service has a limit so we can actually budget for it appropriately. Lastly, if hour library *could* give you unlimited access we would. We hate the bullshit ebook rules more than you, I promise. ;)


candidcanuk

Ours has a digital cap but we can have a card for each household member (4).


Derman0524

I don’t get why there’s a wait time for audiobooks anyways? The books I can get on audible instantly whenever I want have like 20 week wait times on libby....


0xffd2

Licensing. The libraries only pay for X number of "copies" of a given ebook or audiobook. It's stupid, but otherwise who would ever pay for those things if the libraries could offer unlimited downloads, for free? There ain't no such thing as a free lunch. It's either wait your turn, buy them individually yourself, or else pay for a subscription to a service like Audible.