I work as a page at my local library. As I was shelving books this week on a 100 degree day, I looked around and noticed- the building was almost empty of people. Now, it may have been that everyone was still at work or on their boat or at the beach, but it made me think. The room was cool, the few people quiet, and sun was shining on the comfy chairs by the windows. A library in the summer is a wonderful place to work, and an even better place to relax. I know everyone is very busy, but next time you have a free afternoon, consider spending an hour or two at the library. It seems ironic but even though I work there I never visit just to enjoy it. I wish I would have read more in high school, and only now I am realizing what a resource I wasted. A library is a gift to any community, and here are five reasons why.

1.Free books

This first point may seem straightforward, but its a concept that I often take for granted. Over the last four years of high school, I think I went to the library about four times on non-work business. Many times, though, I found myself in a bookstore with a handful of books worth more than I was willing to spend. While it is nice to purchase books and add them to your personal collection, it is just as nice to have thousands of books available for free (unless you’re late returning them of course).

2. Air conditioning

While summer is a time to go to the beach and spend time in the sun, it's also nice to cool off every once in a while. If your summer job keeps you outside all day, if you've just spent a day at the beach, there's nothing quite as nice as walking into an air conditioned building. On the next 100 degree day, consider heading to the library to cool off and relax.

3. Wifi

If you don't feel like reading, you can make use of the library's free wifi. A comfy chair or table in the back is a perfect place to get work done, or just bring your laptop when you need to get out of the house.

4. Quiet

This by far is my favorite part about the library. The quiet. The universal rule of hushed voices at any library makes for the perfect getaway when you need to de-stress. Who needs an exotic vacation when you can enjoy the cool and calm of your local library while getting lost in a good book?

5. Community Events

Libraries often host community events, or provide information for where you can go to them. A library bulletin board is like the town newspaper, detailing important happenings within town. At the library itself there are always activities for kids, author talks for adults, and even discounted passes to attractions around the city. If you feel like nothing is going on in town, head over to the library to change that.