I was looking at my tax bill one day and I found a county library tax. Believe it or not, it is one tax I am happy to pay because the benefits are literally tangible to me!
You see, our public library system in Sussex County has so much to offer, so I wanted to highlight some of the benefits of having a library card and subscribing to its newsletter, so you can make the most of your tax dollars too!
My Favorite: The Grab and Go Service
During the height of the pandemic, patrons couldn’t go inside to look for books unless they had an appointment, so the local libraries started the “Grab and Go” system.
Right now, after the kids go to bed, I sign into my account on the library website and search for books they would like and at reading levels that are just right for my second grader. l place them on hold, schedule a time to pick up the books a day or two later, pull up to the door of the library at my scheduled time, and the books are waiting for me right at the door! I grab them and go! At times, I’ve picked out 20 children’s books online and had them waiting for me at the door a few days later.
My Second Favorite: The Events
Our libraries have so many interesting events at different times of the week and day. There are free arts and crafts for kids and adults, hobby-related social opportunities (such as legos and gardening), lessons to learn new skills such as buying a home and juggling, and fun events to encourage reading, like the “Read to a Dog” program for kids.
Last year, my kids even got to go to the “Touch a Truck” event at the library where they sat in real police surveillance trucks, commercial trucks, and RVs.
Summer Reading
The summer reading program is a great way to challenge yourself to read more. The more points you earn, the more chances you have to win prizes. For the kids, it is also a way to keep their literacy levels on track for September and help fill in some reading gaps that might exist from the last few years.
So Much More
At the libraries and on their website, you can also borrow technology, swap puzzles, get museum passes, and find tutoring help.
I definitely get my money’s worth from our local libraries, and if you need help accessing any of these services, I am happy to help you get your money’s worth too!
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