When money is tight, your local library can be your best friend. Libraries in Canada offer so much more than just books. They are full of free tools and resources that can help you save money during a recession. Let's explore all the amazing things you can find at Canadian libraries that won't cost you a dime!
Free Internet and Computer Access
Not everyone can afford internet at home, especially during tough times. Canadian libraries offer free Wi-Fi and computer access to everyone. This means you can:
- Apply for jobs online
- Check your email
- Print important documents (sometimes for a small fee)
- Join video calls for work or school
- Take online courses to learn new skills
At libraries like the Toronto Public Library or Vancouver Public Library, you can book computer time in advance. Many libraries also loan out laptops and even internet hotspots that you can take home for a few weeks.
Borrow Movies, Music, and Video Games
Why pay for streaming services when your library card gives you access to tons of entertainment? Most Canadian libraries have large collections of:
- DVDs and Blu-rays of movies and TV shows
- Music CDs from all genres
- Video games for different consoles
The Calgary Public Library, for example, has thousands of movies you can borrow. Some libraries even have online streaming services like Kanopy or Hoopla. These services let you watch movies and TV shows on your phone or computer from home.
Free Online Learning
Want to learn a new skill but can't afford classes? Your library card gives you access to many online learning platforms. These include:
- Lynda.com/LinkedIn Learning: Learn business, software, and creative skills
- Mango Languages: Learn a new language for free
- Gale Courses: Take instructor-led courses on many topics
The Edmonton Public Library offers all these resources and more. Learning new skills can help you find better jobs or start a side business during tough times.
Tools and Equipment to Borrow
Some Canadian libraries have "Libraries of Things" where you can borrow items you might only need once in a while. This saves you from buying expensive items you rarely use. You might find:
- Kitchen tools like cake pans or pasta makers
- Garden tools like shovels and rakes
- Sports equipment like snowshoes or fishing rods
- Musical instruments
- Tools for home repairs
The Hamilton Public Library has a wide selection of tools you can borrow with your library card. This is super helpful when you need to fix something at home but don't want to buy expensive tools.
Free Programs and Events
Libraries host many free events and programs for all ages. These can replace paid entertainment during a recession. Look for:
- Storytime for kids
- Craft workshops
- Author talks
- Movie nights
- Financial literacy workshops
- Job search help
- Homework help for students
The Halifax Public Libraries run regular events that can keep the whole family entertained without spending money. Many libraries also offer special programs during school breaks that can help parents save on childcare costs.
Makerspaces and Creative Studios
Many larger Canadian libraries now have makerspaces. These are special areas with equipment you can use to create things. You might find:
- 3D printers
- Sewing machines
- Recording studios
- Video editing software
- Art supplies
The Ottawa Public Library's Imagine Space lets you use expensive equipment for free. This is perfect if you want to start a small business or hobby without investing a lot of money.
Free Museum Passes
Did you know many Canadian libraries offer free museum passes? With your library card, you can borrow passes to local museums, art galleries, and sometimes even science centers or zoos. This can save a family of four over $50 on a single outing!
The Montreal Public Libraries, for example, have a "Museum Pass" program that gives you free entry to many of the city's best museums. This is a great way to enjoy culture and entertainment on a budget.
Seed Libraries
If you want to grow your own food to save money, check if your library has a seed library. These let you "borrow" seeds for free. You plant them, grow your food, and then return some seeds from your harvest.
The Innisfil Public Library in Ontario has a popular seed library program. Growing your own vegetables can help cut grocery bills during tough times.
Job Search Help
Looking for work during a recession? Libraries offer many resources to help job seekers:
- Resume help
- Interview practice
- Career counseling
- Job fairs
- Access to job posting websites
The Winnipeg Public Library offers one-on-one help with job searches and resume writing. These services can help you find work faster when money is tight.
Meeting Spaces
Need a place for a job interview on Zoom? Or somewhere to meet with clients for your side business? Libraries offer free meeting rooms you can book. These quiet, professional spaces are perfect when you can't afford to rent an office.
The Richmond Public Library in British Columbia has meeting rooms in different sizes that you can reserve with your library card.
Free Tax Help
During tax season, many Canadian libraries partner with the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program. They offer free tax filing help for people with simple tax situations and modest incomes. This service can save you money on tax preparation fees.
The Greater Victoria Public Library hosts tax clinics every spring. Getting help with your taxes makes sure you get all the benefits and refunds you qualify for.
E-books and Audiobooks
Of course, libraries still offer books! But now you can borrow e-books and audiobooks without even visiting the library. Apps like Libby let you borrow digital books right from your phone or tablet.
The Quebec City Library network has thousands of e-books in both English and French. This gives you endless reading material without spending money on books.
How to Get Started
Getting the most from your library during a recession is easy:
- Get a library card. It's free for residents in most Canadian cities and towns.
- Ask the librarians what special resources they offer. Each library is different!
- Check the library's website for a calendar of events and programs.
- Download the library's app if they have one. This makes it easy to find and reserve items.
- Sign up for the library newsletter to learn about new resources.
During a recession, every dollar counts. Your local library can help you save money on entertainment, learning, job searches, and even household items. The best part is that libraries are free and open to everyone!
Next time you're feeling the pinch in your wallet, head to your local Canadian library. The friendly librarians will be happy to show you all the amazing resources available with your free library card. You might be surprised at how much money you can save while still enjoying life during tough economic times.
Remember, libraries aren't just buildings full of books—they're community centers full of valuable resources to help you thrive, even when money is tight.