With the valley still experiencing higher-than-average inflation rates, according to the Consumer Price Index, Mesa Public Library offers residents a way to save money.
A 2022 C+R poll found that the average consumer spends $219 on monthly subscription services. The same survey revealed that most participants underestimated what they spent each month, and nearly three-quarters of participants had subscriptions they forgot about.
Compared to top-market e-book and audiobook services, in 2021, Mesa Library saved its customers an estimated $10,729,846 - 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:
oBorrowing, rather than buying, items like cake pans and children's toy kits from our Stuffbrary
oStarting a home garden with free seeds from our Seed Library.
oChecking out a TrickleStar Plug-in Energy Monitor to analyze household appliance and electronic use.
oLearning new skills with LinkedIn Learning
oGetting 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 50 participating Mesa businesses in September. Get discounts on food, retail, services and more. A list of participating businesses is available at 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 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 MesaLibrary.org.