Public libraries are an amazing aspect of life all around the world.
In the USA alone, the American Library Association states there are
more public libraries than Starbucks cafes. That means there is
likely one conveniently located near you - and will save you money by
borrowing a book instead of purchasing.
As you browse books
and e-books on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or Goodreads (there are
others, too), the Library Extension can cross-check your local
library's online catalog and display the availability of that item on
the same shopping page.
I tested it at all
three of the sites mentioned above and it worked like a champ,
displaying different options — as in was it a paper book, ebook, or
audiobook. It also displayed the number of copies available and holds
on an item. Sweet, huh? Sometimes it took a few seconds, but overall
it was a super fast process. On GoodReads, the library information
was displayed a bit lower on the page, so scroll down if you do not
see it on the right side as my screenshot shows.
Once you install the
extension on Chrome or Firefox, you have to “activate it” by
choosing which library you use and connect to the various accounts
and services you use at that library. The extension setup is
intuitive and quickly takes you through what that library has
available, usually the Libby or OverDrive app and service, and gives
you options to include Hoopla (another public library service). I was
able to add my account at the Seattle Public Library in addition to
the county library system.
Once I see the
results on Amazon, GoodReads, or BN.com, I click through to my
library’s page (if it shows it is available, of course), then I can
borrow digitally or get on the waiting list, or place a hold for
traditional book.
With 4,000 libraries
on its list, the Library Extension is likely to have a branch close
to you and remind you of how public libraries are an incredible
treasure and valuable resource. As you download, you will see that it
is highly rated with 4.9 stars on both Google Chrome and Firefox. You
can support the Library Extension work here.
Public libraries
strengthen local economies: 84% of libraries offer technology
training to patrons in computer software use; 77% provide online
health resources; 60% offer programs to help Americans identify
health insurance resources and get better informed on health topics;
73% provide programs that assist individuals to apply for jobs,
create résumés, and prepare for interviews; 97% help people
complete online government forms.