This is Jaime from Media Reviews bringing you the latest information on media! Do you know where you can get the latest media? Your local library! “Hold on, Jaime,” you may say, “the library only has books.” Well, my friend, the library does have books, but that’s not all! Did you know that most libraries these days also carry music and videos? Yes, it’s true!
Since becoming a blogger for Media Reviews, I was looking for old and new materials to review. I went to my local library looking for books and CDs because I knew that the library had them. While I was there, I also found several different sections that had videos — VHS and DVD. Some of them were videos for children, like sing-along videos or episodes of different children’s programs. But there was also a section where they had just regular movies that you can rent in the video store. The best part about getting these from the library is that they are free!
I have recently had some new adventures at my local library. In fact, I have even learned a little more about the Dewey Decimal Classification system (DDC) — the number system that is used by libraries in order to make it easier to find books. Did you know that certain numbers in the DDC stand for certain categories? For example, the 600 category is used for technology and applied sciences; however, the 641 category is all about food and drink. You can see a complete list of categories here. For more information about the DDC and for updates, please visit OCLC.org.
Getting a library card is so simple, too. All you have to do is go to the local branch in the city where you reside — or the closest city that has a library — and show them your ID and proof of address. It takes just a few minutes to get a card. Searching for books is so easy — and easier still if your city’s libraries are online like mine. I live in Virginia Beach and the entire library catalog is available online. All I have to do if I want to check on a book is go to the VB Public Libraries site and do a search. Not only will I be able to see which branches have the book, but I can also put them on hold! If I choose, I can enter my e-mail address and I will receive an e-mail if it is available. Isn’t that easy?
Visiting the library is not like it used to be. With all of the advances in technology and the easy access, the library can be a whole new experience. Your library might even have kids’ story times or special seminars. Contact your local branch today and rediscover the library. Just don’t forget to return your materials when you are finished!
