October is Canadian Library Month!
Join us all month long as we celebrate and raise awareness of libraries' valuable roles in Canadians’ lives.
Libraries are more than just books! Libraries promote cultural awareness, engage in the community, provide educational programs, support freedom of expression and so much more.
Here are 10 things you might not know you can do with a library card:
1. Try a Hobby
We have a variety of kits filled with everything you might need to test-drive a new hobby. Interested in streaming? Check out the Video Kit! Looking to expand your photography skills? Our Photography Kit has you covered. There are so many more, including coding kits for littles looking to explore and have fun.
2. Learn a New Language
Wanting to brush up on your French? Impress a date with your Spanish? Planning a a trip to Italy? New to Canada and looking to brush up on English? Give Pronunciator a try!
With Pronunciator you can learn over 160 languages, including ELL for 51 languages. Don't forget to check out the Bluebird app (powered by Pronunciator) to learn a language on the go. We also have a weekly English Language Learners Conversation Group that is free to attend.
3. Host a Game Night
Having your friends over for a fun game night? Looking for some games to keep the kiddos busy on those No-School Fridays? Check out our Board Game collection! This collection is a great way to try our new games, or classic favourites, without having to commit to purchasing them yourself.
4. Stream a Movie, TV Show or Music
On hoopla you can not only read eBooks and graphic novels/comics, and listen to eAudiobooks (with no holds or waitlists) but you can also watch movies, stream great music, and watch episodes of TV shows. For free. On as many devices as you'd like. (Netflix who?) While you're there, make sure to check out their BingePasses that include collections of materials under one check out.
5. Learn about Your Family
We subscribe to Ancestry Library Edition (within the library) so you don't have to! Discover your family history and trace your genetic roots with Ancestry. See what you can discover with a search of your family name.
6. Access World Languages
If you're looking for a taste of home, we offer thousands of titles in over 24 languages from around the world (for all ages).
7. Borrow Items from Other Libraries in Alberta
Sure, your free library card gives you access to EVERYTHING we offer at WBRL, but did you know you can also borrow items at other libraries in Alberta? First, you can place an interlibrary loan for titles we don't have in our collection and if we can we'll get it shipped here for you to borrow. Second, you can sign up for ME Libraries and use your WBRL card to borrow physical items from other libraries just like a local cardholder. Saving all over the...province.
8. Learn about Indigenous History and Culture
Visit the Bouchier Indigenous Cultural Corner to check out a story by an Indigenous author or creator. Find a title to help you learn about and celebrate Indigenous culture, history, and way of life.
9. Figure Out How to Repair Your Car
If cars and trucks are your passion, or you'd like to try saving a few bucks by diagnosing and fixing your own vehicle, check out Auto Repair Source. Powered by the automotive experts at MOTOR, Auto Repair Source provides the most accurate, authoritative and up-to-date service and repair information for thousands of domestic and imported vehicles.
10. Save Thousands of Dollars by Checking Out Books. And Movies. And Video Games. And Technology.
Yes, we mean thousands (look at the bottom of your check out receipt on your next visit if you don't believe us).
You can save the money on checking out books alone, but we have so much more than the latest books. And movies. And video games. From fun boxes to internet hubs, and almost everything in between. We also offer titles in accessible formats such as large print, braille, and CELA.
Even better? We won't charge you late fees.
Canadian Library Month is a great time to get your free library card and explore all that we offer for yourself.
Library lovers, let us know in the comments if we missed anything that you enjoy doing with your card.
-Nicole Andrews, Communications Coordinator
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