Rediscover the LibraryWhen was the last time you ventured into the library? When was the last time you allowed yourself time to peruse the books, books on tape, DVDs and magazines? If you’re a homeschooler, the answer may be “last week” or “last month.” That’s because the library offers wonderful opportunities for homeschoolers.

For me, homeschooling reintroduced me to the library. As a child, I spent hours there discovering all the books, attending children’s workshops and participating in read-a-thons. It was a treasure hunt each and every time. I loved finding just the right books and checking out my favorites to take home and enjoy. This continued until I graduated college.

Since that time I have only visited the library a handful of times. Instead I’ve found myself ordering books from online or brick-and-mortar stores and filling my shelves with books that I only read once. Once I had children, I frequented story time and checked out books for their enjoyment, but really, I was a light user.

All that changed when I became a homeschooling mom, and I hope it’s changed for you. Like all parents, and especially homeschooling families, I want to introduce my children to quality books, but I don’t want to buy every book I discover. I don’t have the room or the budget for such a pursuit. That’s where the library comes in.

Thanks to modern technology, the search for enticing titles just got easier. Many libraries have their card catalogs online. So you can search your library’s titles and even reserve the titles you want from the comfort of your own home. If your library has multiple branches, you can even order books from other locales and have them delivered to your branch. This gives you the benefit of a much larger selection, the convenience of a one-stop-shopping and the saving grace of being able to run into the library, collect your treasures and be on your way before your children can decide to explore the place at full volume. Ever tried to find good, interesting titles with a three-year-old playing hide-and-seek around the shelves? It’s not pretty.

Yes, the library is a wonderful resource. And don’t forget to check out the non-fiction children’s books and educational DVDs (think documentaries), which can add a boost to any curriculum. You may even find new resources for you, too. That latest fiction thriller you’ve wanted to read? No problem. A new business title? They’ll probably have it.

Many libraries also offer cultural events for added fun. They might have a well-known author visit for Black History Month or a folklore dance group for Cinco de Mayo. Events like these will usually be free of charge. You’ll find information about them on the library’s website.

All of this and more makes your local library a great—and frugal—homeschooling resource. Be sure to check it out and let me know what you find. I’d love to hear comments about how you use your library. Let’s learn together.

Photo: A Rainbow of Books by candiedwomanire