The Simple Life: Continuing Education-Using the Local Library

February 6, 2009 by Chelsea
Filed under Frugality, Piggy Bank

3258578504_afca0182dd_m The Simple Life: Continuing Education-Using the Local Library My husband and I are both students at heart, even though we’ve been out of college for over a year. My parents taught me the value of an education and books from a young age. My husband and myself might go back to school one day for additional degrees but right now we don’t have the time or money to enroll in classes. So the next best step is utilizing our local library.

For me there has always been something special about libraries. Last night, I went to the library to pick up some books on hold and when I walked in I just felt like I was at home. I think the feeling stems from a deep respect for all of the knowledge contained within those brick walls.

One of the main reasons I go to the library is to educate myself on current issues our family is facing. I have checked out multiple books on personal finance, fitness, investing, cooking, childcare, indoor gardening and many other areas. When my husband showed me our options for hte 401(k) plan I didn’t feel intimidate voicing my opinions because I had spent the time to learn about the basics of investing and the different vehicles you can use.

Currently I am researching safe home and natural remedies for common ailments to hopefully save a few trips to the doctor and prescribed antibiotics unless absolutely necessary. I am also looking at investing in a few basic essential oils to add to homemade gifts, cleaning solutions and basic first aid. With all the products out there I want to make sure that our family is getting the best use of our time and money in the solutions that we find. And that is where books are so helpful.

I have to admit that going to the library now with a 1 1/2 year old in tow is a bit of a challenge. I’ve found that reserving books online and picking them up is a lifesaver. Before my son was mobile I would usually take my time to browse through the different selections, but now by the time I’ve given the books an adequate lookover my son has either destroyed the bottom shelf or has run to the next aisle in order to play peek-a-boo.

Even though trips to the library may be a challenge now, I’m trying to instill the same love of learning and books to our son, so I try to make the library fun. I think it’s working because when we go to the library he knows exactly where the kid section is and starts playing with the blocks while I pick out some books for him. And at home he loves to read books.

Even though I am not currently in school I find great satisfaction out of utilizing our local library to keep informed and current in my life and the world around us. Using the library improves our lives by allowing us to improve our minds—all for free.