For the past 2 and a half years I have been working part time as a circulation clerk at the public library in my hometown. When I was hired for this position I was really excited because at one time in my life this would have been my dream job. Now the only reason I say that this would have been my dream job is because I am currently studying to be a mental health counselor. I believe that this job continues to be a great experience for me at this time because I am constantly interacting with a wide variety of individuals from the community on a daily basis. This experience has helped me to relate with individuals from different cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. For as long as I can remember I have always enjoyed reading. When I was in grade school I would always receive a "Book It" certificate for reaching my Accelerated Reader goal which included a free personal pan pizza from Pizza Hut. In this article I am going to discuss 5 reasons why you should visit your local library.

Reason #1 Free Books! Libraries have a wide selection of books that cover every single subject area you could think of and they consist of several different genres. All you need is a library card.

Reason #2 You can also check out magazines, audiobooks, and DVD's. If you're constantly on the go and you're too busy to sit down and read a physical book then audiobooks might work better for you. You can listen to them when you're driving in your car, doing house work, etc. Some of the most popular magazines that can be found at libraries include: People, Southern Living, Better Homes and Gardens, Taste of Home, and Women's Day, and National Geographic. Every library has a different policy about DVD's. Some will allow you to check them out for free with a library card and others will allow you to check them out for a small fee. The library I work at will allow you to check out DVD's for free with a library card. Customers are allowed to check out two DVD's for two days.

Reason #3 If we don't have the book or DVD you are looking for, we will order it for you. Sometimes libraries will obtain books is through interlibrary loans in which libraries will borrow books and other reading material from other libraries.

Reason #4 Libraries have so much more to offer than just books. Most libraries will provide classes and programs for people in the community to attend. Some of these classes or programs include: cooking, crafting, scrapbooking, photography, resume writing, etc and they are usually free! Many libraries also offer a free downloadable music service in which you can download and stream music for FREE!

Reason #5 Downloadable books. Anyone who has access to a computer, cell phone, or tablet can download electronic copies of books and magazines.