By Janet Hosey
There’s a good chance your library card can do more than you realize.
With a Joliet Public Library card, you can borrow movies, music, video games and other unexpected items; access e-books, streaming services and online resources; use technology and makerspaces; and discover new hobbies and interests.
And for eligible Joliet residents, getting a card is free.
Yet many people still have misconceptions about who can get a library card, what it costs and what you can actually do with one.
Let’s bust some of the most common library card myths.
Myth 1: Library cards cost money.
Reality: Getting a Joliet Public Library card is free for Joliet residents. In fact, kids from birth through age 17 who live in the City of Joliet, Joliet Township and Rockdale are eligible for Joliet Public Library cards at no additional cost to the household.
Myth 2: Libraries are only for people who love books.
Reality: Books are a big part of the library, but they’re just one part of a larger story. Libraries are for gamers, crafters, social butterflies, lifelong learners and movie buffs. Joliet Public Library is your community center for technology, classes and events, makerspaces, games, movies and career resources in addition to books.
Myth 3: Everything I need is online anyway.
Reality: Much of what we use is online, but it’s not all free. Having a library card, however, opens the virtual door to a wide range of free digital material, from books, movies and music to databases, teacher resources, job coaching, even auto repair instruction. The library offers cardholders so much valuable information online at no additional cost.
Myth 4: I don’t have kids, so the library isn’t for me.
Reality: Libraries serve every stage of life, from job seekers and entrepreneurs to retirees and lifelong learners. Need help figuring out your smartphone? Want to learn how to screen print a t-shirt? Interested in book recommendations or improving your English conversation skills? Visit the Joliet Public Library.
Myth 5: I haven’t used my card in years, so it’s probably useless.
Reality: Your account may simply need updating, or you can get a new card if needed. Library staff can help.
Myth 6: The library only has old books.
Reality: The library stays up to date with the latest book releases across all genres and age levels. Beyond books, the library also keeps up with new movies, video games and digital content.
Myth 7: I can only borrow books.
Reality: At the Joliet Public Library, you can check out a wide range of materials besides books, including video games, magazines, movies, music CDs, audio books and even American Girl dolls.
Myth 8: I have to be quiet the entire time.
Reality: While there are some areas designated for quiet study, Joliet Public Library also has areas that inspire conversation, including a lively children’s play area. The library frequently hosts activities and classes that are anything but quiet for kids and adults.
Myth 9: I can just buy everything I want online.
Reality: Borrowing instead of buying can potentially save hundreds of dollars each year and lets you try books, movies and other materials before you decide whether to purchase them.
Libraries have changed a lot over the years, and chances are they’re far more exciting than you remember. Stop by the Joliet Public Library, get your free library card and start exploring.