Five facts about Georgia public libraries that you may not know
Libraries are places to connect as a community; they are innovative places that help people achieve goals at any stage of life. In honor of National Library Week, April 7-13, here are some facts about Georgia’s public libraries.
1) Use the Internet at any public library
All Georgia public libraries have free high-speed internet, and Georgia is the only state that offers matching funds to completely cover a library’s internet bill. Public computers in our libraries help people find employment, learn skills and stay connected.
2) Borrow a book… or a ukulele
Over four million Georgians have a library card, and our state’s public libraries lend 88,600 items daily including books, magazines, sewing machines and even ukuleles –almost as many different items as are carried by Walmart.
3) Visit parks, museums and more
Our strategic partnerships with places like Georgia State Parks, Carlos Museum, Chattahoochee Nature Center, Go Fish Center, Center for Puppetry Arts and more provide free programming for public library patrons while saving Georgia families more than $20 million since 2005.
4) Attend a free library event
More than 1.8 million Georgians attend free public library activities each year, including the statewide Summer Reading Program, which provides educational and cultural enrichment activities to prevent learning loss when school is out.
5) Discover local history
Public libraries preserve your local history. Our Archival Services and Digital Initiatives have facilitated the addition of more than 700,000 images to the Digital Library of Georgia, allowing free, online access to primary sources on local history.
Find your closest public library
Visit your local library to take advantage of the services and resources offered.
