With the valley experiencing higher than average inflation rates, according to the Consumer Price Index, Mesa Public Library offers residents a way to save money.
A 2021 West Monroe poll found that the average consumer spends $273 per month on subscription services, up 15 percent from 2018. The same survey revealed that an overwhelming 89 percent of participants underestimated what they spent each month.
Compared to top-market e-book and audiobook services, in 2021, Mesa Library saved its customers an estimated $10,496,959 - and that's only a few of the many digital services available. From listening to audiobooks and music to reading e-books, magazines and newspapers to watching videos, it is all available for free through the Library.
"We are proud to offer so many free resources to fit the needs and interests of our patrons and encourage cardholders to take advantage of them. The average consumer spends hundreds of dollars on subscription services each month. That's money our members can save by getting a free library card," said Mesa Library Director Polly Bonnett.
In addition to accessing free library materials, cardholders can save money by:
Borrowing, rather than buying, items like cake pans and telescopes from our Stuffbrary
Starting a home garden with free seeds from our Seed Library.
Checking out a TrickleStar Plug-in Energy Monitor to analyze household appliance and electronic use.
Learning new skills with LinkedIn Learning
Getting a Culture Pass for access to participating museums.
In celebration of National Library Card Sign-Up Month, a Mesa Library card will unlock special deals at more than 40 participating Mesa businesses in September. Get discounts on food, retail, services and more. A list of participating businesses is available at www.mesalibrary.org/save.
Mesa Library cards are free for anyone who lives, works, attends school or owns property in Maricopa County. Visit a location or apply online at www.mesalibrary.org/getacard.
Lost cards can be replaced for free during National Library Card Sign-Up Month, usually a two-dollar charge, as long as there are no fees on the account. In 2020, Mesa followed a local and national trend of libraries eliminating overdue fines.
For more information about Mesa Library's free digital resources, physical locations and programs, visit www.mesalibrary.org.