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. Beat the summer slide with the Summer Reading Challenge. 

"Unearth a Story" with us this summer! Our annual Summer Reading Challenge encourages reading for fun and prizes, while also avoiding the “summer slide,” which is when students 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 to pick one up. 

 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. You can also browse our virtual book displays in our blog section of the website. 

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. Both hoopla and Kanopy have "kids" versions that are geared toward children 12 and under so you can let your kids stream without having to worry.  

You can also download audiobooks, e-books and magazines with Libby and CloudLibrary. If you don’t have a library card, you can get an e-card and start downloading immediately after registering online.  

4. Attend programs and events. 

From science shows and live animal encounters 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 they will only be used once or twice. With our Library of Things, you can borrow outdoor activities, like ladder toss, an outdoor movie screen or a pickle ball set. If you’re more of an inside person, we also have knitting looms, board games and science kits.  

 6. Take advantage of summer lunches. 

Available at 15 of our branches, youth 18 and younger can grab a free meal Monday through Friday, through August 21. 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. Learn something new. 

Summer is the perfect time to pick up a new hobby. Take advantage of our online research databases, like Mango Languages to learn a new language or LinkedIn Learning to explore creative mediums, like photography or web design. Or head to one of our branches listed below to explore free, hands-on learning and creative opportunities.  

• Catonsville offers the use of its two, state-of-the-art recording and mixing studios for free, after certification. The branch also hosts monthly recording studio-related programming, including open hours to meet with the recording specialist, songwriter support groups and principles of music production.  
• The Hereford Branch is home to “The Hive,” which is a collaborative arts and maker space. The branch offers workshops and programs throughout the summer. 
• Preserve precious memories at the Reisterstown Branch’s Preservation Station. This free do-it-yourself digitization lab offers customers the opportunity to digitize films, tapes and photos. 

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. Many of 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 at our Rosedale Branch. Designed for children birth to 5, this play-and-learn center promotes early literacy and school readiness skills. (Storyville at our Woodlawn Branch is currently closed for renovations.)  

10. Explore our story trails. 

Take the family for a walk at one (or all) of our seven trails throughout the County. 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!