If you’re looking to save money on entertainment, look no further than your local library. I live equal distance between two awesome libraries, and because of that, I have saved a lot of money.

When you think about libraries, most people think about books. I check out all kinds of books from my library – how-to, personal finance, fiction, cooking, children’s books – you name it. Any time I hear about a book that sounds interesting, I always check my library first. Most libraries in the country have inter-library loan systems, so if they don’t have the book you want, they can get it. Not only am I saving money by not buying books, but sometimes I learn things from them that allow me to save more money. I’ve read a lot of books about frugal living at my library. I’ve also done a lot of product research (via Consumer Reports) utilizing the library.

The library also helps keep the clutter under control at my house. I don’t need to have shelves and shelves of books in my house when I know I can check them out anytime I want at the library.

The library also has videos, DVD’s, CD’s, and magazines. Every couple of months, I spend an hour at the library looking at all the magazines. I don’t have to pay to subscribe to them, and I don’t have to deal with the clutter they leave behind (and those stupid subscription cards!). My library also just started offering downloadable books in MP3 format, so you can listen to books in your MP3 player.

Our local libraries also have great programming. There are book clubs, interesting speakers, and stimulating children’s programs. It’s also a great place to access the internet if you don’t have access at home.

For those of you who stick close to home in the country, there is a bookmobile that comes nearby, and our community has a “Mail-A-Book” program where the library sends you books (no postage charges!) to read.

The library is one of the most useful tools in a frugal person’s toolbox. Check it out!