Start the New Year Off Right - at the library!

Just because we graduate from school and enter into the real world does not mean that we must automatically rely solely on Netflix and Barnes and Noble for all our storytelling needs. Hello! Don't - forget - to - use - your - library card!

Show of hands, how many of you actually have your local library card? Now, how many of you actually use it, say, at least once a month? If you're still raising your hand, this post is not for you. Pat yourself on the back and browse through the archives for some information that you may find helpful. The rest of you, read on because I'm concerned. I think you have a problem. Why are you paying for books and movies when there are these buildings all over town that are letting folks borrow them for free? I don't mean to sound harsh. Trust me, I was one of you. Foolishly paying for things like books and movies. But recently I've made the switch back to the stacks.

Now, I totally understand the "I want it now" philosophy, especially when it comes to movies. The selection at the library pales in comparison to that of Blockbuster, Netflix and, don't forget Hollywood Video (I had a love affair in college with their $1 five day rentals!). But if you're looking to find a good DVD you can snuggle up to on your couch with some hot cocoa and your boo - then I think it's worth a stop.

And if you're among the book reading population then there is one word for you: Duh!
Just stop it with the Dalton and the B&N. When you finish a book, do you really then need to let it collect dust on your bookshelf in your tiny apartment? And if you happen to be one of those people with books in storage, this post is especially for you.

They make it real easy these days. Many public libraries have their directories online. You can check to see if your book is available and hold it. In many cases, you can even have a book sent to your local library if it happens to be at a further branch.

Just remember to return your items on time because unlike Netflix, the library will charge you a late fee!

Now get to borrowing!