My local library has a couple 3d printers, random physical things you can check out (including power tools and a couple Nintendo Switches), they do little maker / art events, in addition to obviously you can go by and chill or do work without having to buy a coffee. Honestly libraries are so wonderful that it’s not surprising that some Powers That Be are starting to catch on and try to make life difficult for them. It’s like a little glimpse of a better world you can go and experience any time you want.
My library has a whole mini maker space in it. FDM 3D printers, tons of textile stuff, a knock-off cricut, and a load of simple tools. No bigger equipment for wood or metal working but they have a relationship with a local “tool library” that will check out equipment like that for home use.
Public libraries are the best. Also, if your local library is very small, see if they’re part of a larger network that affords you extra resources or a bigger catalog. See if the nearest large metro city has eCards to check out digital materials; I have one that costs me a paltry $22/yr and gives me access to tens of thousands of ebooks/audiobooks and Hoopla, Kanopy, and free online classes (e.g. How to Cook Healthy, How to Become a Master Gardener, etc.).
The value of public libraries cannot be understated.
Of course they do, like any streaming platform. However, you can only access them through your library membership. They don’t have subscription plans for the general public, afaik.
Did you suppose libraries would allow you to download copyrighted movies for free?
Some of the more metro ones often have tool libraries, art you can rent, and other neat misc resources too.
Edit: also free trips to local museums or zoos/aquariums
I used the online databases to get the paid for consumer reports reviews of washers and dryers. I didn’t care for their recommendations, just the data.
Our local library also has free passes to local city and state places like aquariums, parks, etc. that usually change an admission. They are hard to get, but free isn’t always easy!
It may not just be your local library, either. In some states, the larger city libraries get enough State funding that e-book borrowing privileges are available to anyone in the state. You might even be able to apply online, and start borrowing e-books without ever having to go to a branch in that city.
I know that in NY State, access to the NY, Brooklyn, and Queens libraries are available to anyone in the State.
