A Writer’s Secret Weapon: Free. Productive. Underrated.

The library has been a vital resource for communities, regardless of their affluence, because it endeavors to provide a safe and accessible space.

I grew up going to the library to participate in summer reading challenges, to do homework, and to find new, it's important to mention free, books in which to immerse myself. Feeling welcomed and encouraged to check out as many books as I could carry, with the knowledge that I can check out more as soon as they get returned, helped me become an avid reader.

Not only to check out an armful of books, libraries have meeting rooms with interactive whiteboards and podcast equipment, to support entrepreneurs, solo/group projects, and more. Just like your favorite coworking space and coffee shop, they too have a synergetic environment that enables productivity and balances space for the individual and the many - it's important to repeat, free.

Today, I occasionally work out of the library to enjoy the community of fellow patrons completing projects, the enthusiastic support from librarians, and the books!

After working for a few hours, I take a break by casually browsing the shelves. I pick a subject and walk up and down the aisles, skimming titles from the top to the bottom shelf, hoping to find a few books to take home.

As a writer, this activity helps me passively initiate the research portion of my writing process, saving titles to explore at a later time as potential source material. In that same vein, discovering the kinds of books in which the library invests as a reference for future acquisition requests/recommendations.

As a new writer looking for opportunities to sell your books and expand your reach, the library can be one of your pools of customers. You can also take advantage of the space to host a book release, reading, and signing.

I love and appreciate libraries for their service to the community, for supporting the education of children, and for providing accessible resources for entrepreneurs.

What has been your experience with libraries? When was the last time you went to the library? If it's been a while, visit the libraries in your area. I hope it brings up fond memories and you find something new.