Everything You Get Free With a Library Card — You’ll Be Surprised!
Most people think of their library card as a way to borrow books. But honestly your library card is one of the most underrated free tools you have — and most people are barely scratching the surface of what it gets you.
Here’s everything you can get completely free just by having a library card.
Free Streaming and Digital Entertainment
Your library card can replace a surprising number of paid subscriptions. Most libraries give you free access to Kanopy, Hoopla, or Libby — that’s free movies, TV shows, documentaries, ebooks, audiobooks and comics streamed directly to your phone, tablet or computer. No late fees, no subscriptions.
- Kanopy — free movies and documentaries
- Hoopla — movies, TV shows, comics and music
- Libby/OverDrive — ebooks and audiobooks
- Flipster or PressReader — free digital newspapers and magazines
- Freegal Music — free music streaming and downloads
Free Learning and Classes
Libraries are quietly one of the best free education resources available. Depending on your library system you may have free access to:
- Rosetta Stone — language learning
- LinkedIn Learning — professional and career skills
- Universal Class — hundreds of courses on almost any topic
- Free in-person workshops — coding, financial literacy, crafting, creative writing and more
- Test prep materials — free practice tests for SAT, ACT, GED and GRE
Free Museum Passes and Local Experiences
This is the one that surprises people the most. Many libraries partner with local museums, zoos, botanical gardens and state parks to offer free admission passes — often for a family of four or more. Check your library’s website because these go fast and need to be reserved in advance.
- Free museum and zoo passes
- Free state and national park passes
- Free author talks and film screenings
- Free concerts and cultural events
- Free story times, puppet shows and kids programs
Free Tech Access
Every library offers free Wi-Fi and computer access. But many go further:
- Portable Wi-Fi hotspots — check one out and take it home
- Laptops and tablets — available for loan at many branches
- 3D printers and laser cutters — available in library makerspaces
- Sewing machines and recording studios — yes really
- Free Wi-Fi — always available in the building for your devices
Practical Free Stuff You Didn’t Know About
A few hidden gems most people never use:
- Free printing and scanning — free or very cheap, some libraries give you free pages daily
- Free meeting rooms — reserve a quiet space for study groups, remote work or community events
- Free notary services — save $10-$25, many libraries have a notary on staff
- Seed libraries — check out free seed packets, bring them back at season’s end
- Library of Things — borrow cake pans, power tools, board games, musical instruments and outdoor gear
How to Find Out What YOUR Library Offers
Every library system is different so the best thing to do is:
- Visit your library’s website and look for a digital resources or services page
- Sign up for their email newsletter so you never miss a free event or new perk
- Ask a librarian — they know everything their branch offers and love connecting people with resources
Your library card is free. Everything above is free. If you don’t have one yet go sign up today — it takes about five minutes and pays for itself immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a library card really free? Yes — completely free for residents of the library’s service area. Just bring proof of address and a photo ID to your local branch and you’ll have a card in minutes.
Can I access library resources without going in person? Absolutely. Most digital resources like Libby, Hoopla, Kanopy and online learning platforms are available 24/7 from your phone, tablet or computer — no need to visit the branch at all.
Does my library really offer free museum passes? Many do — but availability varies by location. Check your library’s website under “Museum Passes” or “Community Partnerships” and reserve early because they go fast.
What is a Library of Things? It’s exactly what it sounds like — a collection of non-book items you can borrow just like a book. Cake pans, power tools, board games, musical instruments, outdoor gear — it varies by library so check what yours has.
Can I borrow a Wi-Fi hotspot from the library? Many libraries offer this — especially since COVID when libraries expanded their tech lending programs. Check your library’s website or just ask at the desk.
Do I need a library card to use the library’s Wi-Fi? Usually no — most libraries offer free Wi-Fi to anyone in the building regardless of whether you have a card.
