Action Item: Find your local library and go visit it this week. If you don't have a library card, get one. If you already have a card, ask the librarian what services beyond books you can access.

Summary

In this episode, I break down why the library is one of the most underrated money-saving tools available to young professionals. I share how the library has saved me hundreds of dollars over the years and explain how it offers way more than just books. From digital content and professional equipment to community events and even state park passes. I walk through Sariah's story, a 24-year-old who moved to Madison, Wisconsin for her first job and was spending $400 a month trying to make friends before discovering the library. She cut her social spending from $400 down to $80 while actually building real community. The library can help you save money, build community, and get away from screens, all for free!

Resources & Links Mentioned

"8 Ways the Library Can Save You Money in 2024" - Natrona County Library: https://www.natronacountylibrary.org/8-ways-the-library-can-save-you-money-in-2024/

"Surprising Library Benefits That Will Save You Money" - Rachel Teodoro: https://www.rachelteodoro.com/2020/02/surprising-library-benefits-that-will.html

"6 Ways Your Local Library Can Save You Money" - The Week: https://theweek.com/personal-finance/6-ways-your-local-library-can-save-you-money

"New ALA Report: Gen Z & Millennials are Visiting the Library & Prefer Print Books": https://www.ala.org/news/2019/12/new-ala-report-gen-z-millennials-are-visiting-library-prefer-print-books

Libby App (for borrowing ebooks and audiobooks): https://libbyapp.com/

Timestamps

[01:22] The problem: feeling like you need to buy everything new from Amazon

[03:00] Four high-impact ways libraries save you money (digital content, professional development, legal resources, studio equipment)

[03:32] How the Libby app works and why waiting isn't actually a drawback

[05:17] My library receipt shows I've saved hundreds of dollars

[07:00] Sariah's case study begins: New grad spending $400/month trying to make friends

[08:27] The moment Sariah discovered free library events while seeing another paid networking ad

[10:12] How Sariah cut her social spending from $400 to $80 by using the library

[11:32] Why Gen Z and millennials prefer physical books (twice as many as digital)

[13:29] The surprise money-saving tip: Borrowing state and national park passes from your library

Email me at fpyapod@gmail.com