NotUrsula
DIS Legend
- Joined
- Apr 19, 2002
- Messages
- 20,062
There are a few different ways to have multiple library accounts. In some large metro areas different systems have reciprocal borrowing, (that's the case where I live, although they only allow you to use Hoopla for your home district, Overdrive allows you to register with both systems.) There are also some larger public library systems which allow non-resident patrons to buy in to digital services, which is still cheaper than something like Audible if you're a frequent user, plus you get ebooks and videos as well, AND you support a public institution that provides services to local people who can't afford to pay extra anywhere. This article lists a few: it's fairly up-to-date but was published before the pandemic. https://www.aworldadventurebybook.com/blog/libraries-with-non-resident-borrowing-privileges
I'd also like to mention that the recently passed Federal American Rescue Plan Act (aka "the stimulus bill") includes $200M for public libraries & museums; which is a huge victory for all Americans. You can contact your local library to find out what new programs/resources that they plan to provide with it. (Most if not all libraries I know of plan to put at least some of the money toward expanding their digital resources offerings.)
Also, a word about "using more than your share", which is a topic that tends to sprout anytime people discuss the idea of nonresident borrowers. Trust me, there is no such thing. Libraries live and die by their statistics; the more use that can be shown, the better argument library administrations have for a larger share of tax funding. Public libraries are pretty much the best bang for your buck that you will ever get: in most places in the US, the average family's tax contribution for a year of library services is less than the cost of 2 best-seller titles purchased from Amazon. Those extra buy-in borrowers are normally paying the same as a resident family, and sometimes as many as 4 or 5 families. More users is a good thing and enables stronger purchasing power.
I'd also like to mention that the recently passed Federal American Rescue Plan Act (aka "the stimulus bill") includes $200M for public libraries & museums; which is a huge victory for all Americans. You can contact your local library to find out what new programs/resources that they plan to provide with it. (Most if not all libraries I know of plan to put at least some of the money toward expanding their digital resources offerings.)
Also, a word about "using more than your share", which is a topic that tends to sprout anytime people discuss the idea of nonresident borrowers. Trust me, there is no such thing. Libraries live and die by their statistics; the more use that can be shown, the better argument library administrations have for a larger share of tax funding. Public libraries are pretty much the best bang for your buck that you will ever get: in most places in the US, the average family's tax contribution for a year of library services is less than the cost of 2 best-seller titles purchased from Amazon. Those extra buy-in borrowers are normally paying the same as a resident family, and sometimes as many as 4 or 5 families. More users is a good thing and enables stronger purchasing power.
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