10 Ways to Save This Summer at Baltimore County Public Library

Summer fun doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Between vacations, camps and family activities, costs can quickly add up. But we’re here to help! We want you to make the most of your summer without having to pull out your wallet. Whether you're looking to beat the heat, keep the kids busy or enjoy some entertainment, the library has you covered. Here are 10 ways you can save money this summer as you explore, learn, create and connect.

1. Keep kids learning with the Summer Reading Challenge.

“Color Our World” this summer! Our Summer Reading Challenge encourages reading for fun and prizes while also avoiding the “summer slide,” which is when students often experience learning loss between the school years. Plus, children receive a free book just for signing up, while supplies last. Visit our Summer Reading page to register and download a game board or stop by any branch. 

 2. Stock up on books, DVDs and CDs.

Skip the bookstore—our shelves are full of the latest bestsellers, classic films, popular music and more. You can borrow up to 100 items at a time, making it easy and convenient to have fun all summer long. If you’re not sure what you want to read, we have Be Surprised Bundles, where librarians pick out items for you based off your recommendations.  

3. Drop the subscriptions.

With your library card, you can instantly stream thousands of movies, TV shows and music with our streaming services: hoopla and Kanopy. You can also download audiobooks, e-books and magazines with Libby and CloudLibrary. Don’t have a library card? You can get an e-card to start downloading immediately after registering online. 

4. Attend programs and events.

From magic shows and animal adventures to author talks and crafting, our summer programs offer something for everyone. This is a great way to cure summer boredom when the family needs to get out of the house.  

 5. Check out the Library of Things.

This summer, allow yourself to try new things, without being bogged down with the supplies if it doesn’t work out. With our Library of Things, you can borrow knitting looms, fishing rods, karaoke machines and more. 

 6. Take advantage of summer lunches.

Available at 16 of our branches, youth 18 and younger can grab a free meal Monday-Friday through August 15, except for July 4 (when branches are closed). Times vary at each branch. It is important to note that the meals do have to be eaten at the library. Find a branch near you. 

7. Use WiFi and public computers.

Need a spot to catch up on emails, fill out job applications or just browse the web? All of our branches offer internet and computer access through your library card. 

8. Cool down in a comfy space.

The dog days of summer are here, but you can give your AC a rest. Head to your local branch instead, where we offer a welcoming, air-conditioned space to work, learn or play. Our branches have individual spaces for everyone in the family—children, tweens and teens.   

9. Play at Storyville.

For the little ones in your life, we encourage you to explore Storyville. Designed for children birth to 5, these play-and-learn centers promote early literacy and school readiness skills. There are two locations: at our Rosedale and Woodlawn branches. 

10. Explore our story trails.

Take the family on a walk and check out our story trails. We have four trails located in Catonsville, Cockeysville, Owings Mills and Reisterstown. Story trails are a great way to promote both early learning skills—by encouraging families to read together—and health literacy, by encouraging families to get outside and walk trails together. 

Make Baltimore County Public Library your budget-friendly summer destination. Grab your free library card and start saving today!