Library Card Tips and Tricks

Having multiple library cards is great when it comes to reading; it gives you a much richer selection of resources and more chances for any given work to be available.

California residents

California libraries often offer cards to an California resident; this may include online registration for a temporary card (normally 1-3 months) which can be converted to a regular card if you visit the branches.

Finding libraries in California

This spreadsheet from 2024 lists libraries and their associated networks to help find library cards. Create a copy of this spreadsheet and use it to find local libraries. When traveling around California it can be useful to check your destinations to see if getting a card would be useful.

Browser extensions to find books

Each extension needs to be configured with your libraries. Library Extension focuses on showing you books on a variety of sites; Available Reads is focused more on a better experience with GoodReads specifically.

Library Extension

When using sites like Amazon, GoodReads, or other book websites it checks the library’s catalog and shows if you can check out the book. I love using an Amazon page to immediately check the book out from my local library.

Website: libraryextension.com

Available Reads

This enhances GoodReads more specifically; it displays on your Bookshelf pages, which can be good if you use bookshelves actively.

Website: GoodReads Extension

Other neat things to check for at the library

• eBooks via Libby/Overdrive
• Hoopla - Audiobooks, comics, music, TV shows
• Kanopy - Films and documentaries
• Newspaper access and archives
• New York Times access
• Consumer Reports
• Coursera
• Geneology research
• Live Tutoring
• Language learning apps
• PressReader for international newspapers/magazines
• Check local libraries for tool libraries and other home goods

                                                                                                     
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