Libraries

The first year that I homeschooled, we lived in an area that had an awesome library system.  The size, selection, programs, ability to request things for free from other libraries, online card catalog, and ability to request books from home and pick them up at the desk were a homeschoolers dream.  The next year we moved back to a small town with a teeny tiny library, no online card catalog, no programs, and interlibrary loan costs money.  They are trying to do better and add to their selection, but it is a small town library and does not have the same resources as one in the "big city."

One thing that may be helpful to those like me in a small town is that in addition to using your small town library, most larger libraries will allow you to purchase an out of town resident card.  If you head into the "big city" every couple of weeks you could visit the library and check out books regularly.  Also, many bigger libraries have ebooks, audiobooks, music, and even movies to stream available that you can check out from home!  Our "big city"  library card allows you to check out 5 digital items at a time.  This has been wonderful for me.  I check out some of the newer audiobooks for Alex so he can listen to the same books that Nick reads.  I also have been able to read many books on my Nook that I would have never been able to buy.  If you are in a small town, or just haven't visited your library lately, it may be worth checking in to.