Article by Ashley Atkinson, Fairfax County Public Library
(Posted 2024 September)
September is Library Card Sign Up Month! While you may know that you can use your library card to check out books from a branch, a Fairfax County Public Library (FCPL) card can be used for a lot more, including some things you probably wouldn’t expect. From research and accessing online databases to borrowing items you would have never guessed would be at the library, read on to find out a few of the unexpected things you can do.
Access Digital Versions of Books, Audiobooks and Magazines
FCPL offers cardholders access to thousands of eBooks, eAudiobooks and eMagazines through its partner OverDrive. Accessible on any computer or through the Libby app on tablets and cell phones, these resources bring the library to you with access to the latest releases, popular titles, mainstream periodicals and more wherever you happen to be. Check out the online catalog at fairfax.overdrive.com.
Track Your Family History with Genealogy Databases and Resources
Discovering your family’s story has never been easier! Your library card grants access to several databases containing genealogical and historical records, as well as the trove of physical documents and records available through the Virginia Room. Learn more about FCPL's genealogy services at bit.ly/fcpl-genealogy.
Borrow Board Games, Binoculars and More
Try something before you buy it with the Library of Things. Featuring nontraditional library items that cardholders can borrow, the growing collection contains board games to entertain visiting family, binoculars for birding or stargazing, artwork to spruce up a space and much more. See the complete Library of Things collection at bit.ly/FCPL_LibraryOfThings.
Learn a New Skill or Language with Resources for Lifelong Learning
Your library card grants you access to many databases designed to teach anyone, regardless of age or knowledge level, something new. From 70 different languages to computer and business skills – almost any other topic you can think of, you can learn it through one of FCPL’s online resources. Visit bit.ly/FCPL_LifelongLearning to learn more.
Do Research on Topics Such as Finance or Which Car You Should Buy
FCPL has resources, both in-person and online, to get informed about any topic. Whether you need help choosing a car, want to enter the stock market or anything else, the library can help. Learn more about researching through the library at bit.ly/FCPL_Research.
That is just the beginning! There are so many more things you can do with the help of your local library, both with and without a card. Get one-on-one assistance with your cell phone, computer or other technology with the help of a tech tutor. Pursue your interests and meet like-minded friends with one of FCPL’s hundred of programs. Digitize your old photos, videos and documents at a Memory Depot. All are things you can do without a card, but why would you not want one?
Next time you are out and about, stop by your local FCPL branch and unlock the opportunity to check it ALL out!
This article is part of the Golden Gazette monthly newsletter which covers a variety of topics and community news concerning older adults and caregivers in Fairfax County. Are you new to the Golden Gazette? Don’t miss out on future newsletters! Subscribe to get the electronic or free printed version mailed to you. Have a suggestion for a topic? Share it in an email or call 703-324-GOLD (4653).