Your Public Library Is the Ultimate Third Place
How the Spartanburg Public Library serves as an invaluable community resource
In a previous blog, I discussed the general idea of third places and why they are important to walkable, livable communities. Although I absolutely adore the folks at Little River and see those baristas more often than I care to admit, I want to make the argument that the ultimate third place is your public library. For those who are local to my area, I will provide information about the resources available at the Headquarters Library downtown. For those reading from elsewhere, I encourage you to find your public library’s website to get a good idea of everything they offer. Even better, physically go to the public library yourself and explore it firsthand.
As a kid, I remember excitedly asking my parents to take me to the headquarters library downtown. I remember carrying around a stack of twenty or so books, to make sure I had enough to read until the next visit. I remember checking out Doctor Who DVDs season by season as I binged the series. I remember attending teen open mic nights and playing video games in their teen space.
As an adult, I still visit the public library often. In many ways I have grown even more aware of all of the opportunities provided by my library. I hope to open your eyes to them as well.
When many of us think about libraries, we think of a librarian shushing us no matter how quiet we whisper. While library etiquette is important, this could not be further from the case. The library is a great place to meet with friends and catch up. It is a great place to meet with classmates and collaborate. You should be mindful of others while you are at the library, but there are areas specifically designated for talking. Be mindful and considerate of others while you are there, but feel free to use the lobby areas to meet with friends.
In addition to just informally meeting up with friends at the public library, you can check their website for information on events and programming at all branches of the Spartanburg public library system. These events include options for all ages that range from board games and movies to yoga and crafting. Whether you want to meet others, learn something new, or show off a talent, the public library system offers programming opportunities for you.
The public library system is not only powerful for the social opportunities to provides our community, but also the wealth of other resources. We will begin on the topic of books and media, since that is what most people first think of when it comes to a library. At the public library, you can check out books and movies and even video games. You can also use the free streaming service Kanopy, which has an awesome selection of independent and foreign films. The library also offers e-books and audiobooks through free services like Libby and OverDrive.
In terms of other community services, the library offers notary services, passport applications, tax forms, printing, test proctoring, and supplies from The Period Project. I have also seen college prep help offered there by Spartanburg Community College. Pictured below is a seed library that allows you to both take seeds to plant and to contribute seeds for others to take!
In my experience, the staff of the headquarters library is always helpful and can point you in the direction of what you need at the library. If you do not have a library card already, I encourage you to change that. The library is a frequent stop on my walks around downtown
Until next time,
Liv.
Love our library!