Simple Green: Visit the Library

This month, we're trying an experiment in our household. My bf unplugged the television--not just while it's off, but for good. While we're not ready to rid our lives of the TV yet, we are turning toward more antiquated forms of entertainment... which means lots of books.

We like to grow our personal library as much as the next person, but let's face it: we're renting, and if we acquire too many books, we'll curse each one as we pack it into a box next year. And besides, we're not saving enough money yet by tuning out the TV waves to justify plunking down cash for every book we'd like to read.

And at a time when the whole economy is tight-fisted, we're not the only ones with our sights set on the library...

Earlier this week, the Austin-American Statesman reported that more and more Austinites are visiting the libraries. They're using the computer workstations to research job markets, and saving money on entertainment by checking out DVDs, CDs, and books rather than buying them new.

It seems a little silly to even point out that this is a green move; why not share more and more with your neighbors instead of purchasing new items (or even purchasing used)? But sometimes we forget that the simple, little things make a big difference.

Have you noticed a bump in your library's patronage, or started going more yourself?

Photo by Gabriel Aybar via sxc.hu

Comments (5)

The downtown Austin library just acquired 24 sustainability-related books - on green remodeling, small space living, urban planning, and climate-centric design. The list of books is posted at www.livinghouseaustin.com and sent to Austin Eco Network for their new website (I'm merging living house austin with AEN). I thought the library could do a better job of lending them out - and this way, I feel better about the expense. Also, I'm planning a move soon - and donating was a good mid-organizing break and mood-lifter.

Personal plea: Please pay attention to your local libraries - even if you don't visit - their hours are getting cut back, staff reduced, and many branches closed nationwide. I didn't realize how many people rely on libraries, even for things like internet access...

posted by mysoultokeep on February 18th 2009 at 7:49pm
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Right after high school ended I got reacquainted with my public library. (I use to check out a lot of books at school) I go at least 3 times a month... to drop off books or pick out some new ones.

A lot of the newer titles I'm looking for are surprisingly always on the shelves. And books that are hard to find in the library or even at B&N I tend to think maybe reading that classic (insert name here) book I always wanted to read is a better option.

Reading classic literature can be way more funny when its not assigned in an English class. hehe

posted by witchbaby on February 18th 2009 at 10:47pm
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I've always been surprised at how many people don't take advantage of their library. Want a new realease that's only out in a $40 hardcover? Get it from the library. Want to rent a movie? $1 at the library. Want to listen find some new music? Tons of cds are at the library!

posted by peshue on February 19th 2009 at 2:22pm
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I think the library is one of the very best uses of my tax dollars. I use it all the time - love the internet option of searching, putting a hold request, email notice when books or dvds are in. I don't have money or space for the number of books I read and it just makes sense. When I do buy a book it is something I will keep like design or reference books.

posted by Gallivant on February 19th 2009 at 2:58pm
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I've been a big library user since I was first able to read. Even now, I don't have many books, just the ones that I like to read several times a year. And anything the library doesn't have, they are happy to order for me or get it as an interlibrary loan.

posted by BambiJo on February 22nd 2009 at 8:37pm
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