By: Lubna Abdallah
When I think back to my elementary school days, the first memory that comes to my mind is getting lost in rows and rows of novels at my local public library. If the closest library didn’t have the latest Dork Diaries book or the exact installment of A Series of Unfortunate Events I was looking for, I begged my father to drive me to the branch with the “better” selections. To my delight, however, a sweet librarian informed me that I could place a hold on as many books as I liked and they would have them shipped to my local branch. From then on, every week like clockwork, my father and I would make our library trip and I swapped my well-loved reads for the ones I placed on hold, all while continuing to scan the aisles for a chance find. And every time we moved to a new city and left behind everything familiar, stepping into the local library was all it took to feel at home again.
Looking back on those happy and peaceful times, I realize just how pivotal the public library was in building my love for literature and ultimately pushing me to study humanities in university. But I know now that endless free books are only part of what makes public libraries so remarkable - they’re places of community connection, offering support in every aspect of life, from hosting sewing circles to assisting newcomers to Canada. Not to mention, in a world so hyperfocused on consumerism and financial gain, public libraries stand out as some of the last true spaces in society where you’re NOT pressured to spend money. It’s no wonder I think libraries are some of the best places on Earth - though, admittedly, I’m a bit biased.
You, however, as a university student in London, Ontario (or anywhere else) might be asking yourself: Why not just go to the university library? Or isn’t it better to simply buy my course readings from the bookstore?
What do I stand to gain from a public, community library?
If that is you, look no further! Here are three reasons why I believe your local public library is worth a visit:
Budget-Friendly Options and Study Spaces
Let’s talk about something I am sure is on every university student’s mind (especially English majors)- money. The cost of required readings, from novels to anthologies, can add up fast, and if you’re like me, it can feel overwhelming. That’s why borrowing course readings from the library, rather than buying them, is a real game-changer. Sure, I’m someone who loves to annotate as I read, and you might think you’d lose that freedom with library books. But here’s a tip: clear sticky notes/tabs work wonders. You can jot down key points and ideas directly onto the sticky note, stick it into the book, and still return it when you’re done in pristine condition! I also like to use different colours of sticky notes to highlight various aspects of the novel I’m focusing on - for example, blue for characterization and red for symbolism. This system makes it so easy to locate specific points when I’m writing an essay and need quick references to different elements in the novel.
And if you can’t find the physical book you need, don’t worry. Public libraries offer thousands of digital options, and the London Public Library provides access to platforms like Hoopla and Libby. With these, you can borrow e-books and audiobooks from home. So, before you spend hundreds on books each semester, check out your local library - you’ll be surprised how much you can save without missing out on any of your reading essentials.
Also, struggling to find a spot at Weldon or Taylor? Try a public library! Not only is there a chance to find a variety of seating - from couches to cubicles to tables - but the atmosphere offers a refreshing change of pace from the university's constant buzz. Public libraries are often quieter, with cozy study nooks and less foot traffic, making it easier to stay focused. Plus, they are designed with the community in mind, creating a warm and welcoming environment. When you need a break from the university grind, your public library can be the perfect retreat for productive and peaceful study sessions.
Beyond Academics: Leisure, Community Connection and Personal Growth
If you’re looking to read for pleasure, the local library is the perfect place. Their selections are easily accessible, with well-organized sections for YA, contemporary fiction, and more. While the university library is fantastic for academic resources, the public library really shines for casual reading in particular. Plus, remember that books aren’t the only things you can borrow, many libraries offer DVDs, CDs, magazines and even musical instruments. At the London Public Library, you can also access free movies and TV shows through online platforms like Kanopy. In fact, Kanopy was where I finally found Les Parapluies de Cherbourg, a movie I had so much trouble tracking down.
Also, looking to learn a new language, get to know your new vehicle or explore your ancestry? The London Public Library has an abdundance of digital resources to support your interests! It’s amazing how many free tools are available in the community - all you have to do is explore. Not to mention, there are tons of options for all sorts of gatherings, such as sewing circles and adult book clubs, as well as public lectures. Whether you want to discuss the latest bestsellers, explore historical topics, be creative or hear from local authors and experts, the library provides a vibrant space for intellectual engagement and community connection.
Networking and Resume Building
Finally, let’s talk about how the public library can boost your professional career - a benefit many overlook. Public libraries offer countless rewarding volunteering opportunities that not only build your resume but also connect you with the wider community. For instance, the London Public Library’s R.E.A.D. program allows you to work one-on-one with elementary students in English or French, helping to foster their love for reading through engaging activities and personalized help. I was a R.E.A.D. mentor myself for 2 years, and I found it incredibly rewarding to see the progress these young readers made. Each session was a chance to spark their enthusiasm for books and literacy, which in turn enhanced my own teaching and communication skills. For those of you who aspire to enter the education field especially, volunteering as a R.E.A.D. mentor is a great way to test the waters of supporting younger students.
In addition to the R.E.A.D. program, you can become an English Conversation Mentor, assisting newcomers in improving their English skills. My experience as an ESL mentor gave me valuable insights into the challenges faced by those learning a new language and enhanced my understanding of cross-cultural communication. If that’s not for you, the library also offers opportunities to mentor high school students through the Beyond the Book program. And if you’re into tech, there are even options to participate in programs such as Technology Tutoring!
Overall, volunteering with the library is a unique way to break out of the university bubble and engage with London’s broader community, especially if you’re new to the area. Whether you're looking to gain experience, build connections, or enhance your skill set, the public library has so much to offer!
Conclusion
I hope this has inspired you to explore all that your local library has to offer. And believe me, with a library card, you’ll truly be the coolest kid on the block.
Here are some helpful links about the London Public Library in particular:
Instagram: @londonlibrary
Updates and events: https://www.lpl.ca/whats-on?page=1.
Digital Library: https://www.lpl.ca/books-digital/digital-library.
Volunteer Opportunities: https://www.lpl.ca/using-library/get-involved/volunteer-us.
And finally, don’t just take it from me- check out these amazing reads about how truly awesome public libraries are:
Dear Fahrenheit 451: Love and Heartbreak in the Stacks by Annie Spence.
What You Are Looking For Is in the Library by Michiko Aoyama, translated by Alison Watts
The Library Book by Susan Orlean
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