The Public Libraries Blog

Practical guides and real data on getting the most out of America’s public libraries — library cards, free e-books, statewide digital resources, hours and more.

Guides

How to Get a Library Card in Any U.S. StateStep-by-step: get a free card, online or in person, in any state.How to Borrow eBooks & Audiobooks Free (Libby, hoopla, Kanopy)What each free app lends and how to start.Are Public Libraries Open on Sundays?How Sunday hours work, with real examples.What Can You Borrow at the Library Besides Books?Hotspots, museum passes, tools, telescopes and more.

Library Data

Free Online Library Resources by StateEvery state's free statewide digital library — ELM, TEL, AVL and more.U.S. Public Libraries by the NumbersHow many public libraries each state has (IMLS data).