Westerly Sun Column | Let the Library Help With Your Resolutions

Here’s a fun party trick for you: You tell me your New Year’s Resolution, and I’ll tell you how the library can help you attain it! Ok, I know, it’s not quite as thrilling as knife juggling or fire breathing, but I challenge you to stump me. Here are a few of the more popular New Year’s Resolutions, so you get an idea of what I’m talking about.

Saving money is historically a popular resolution, and I’m sure 2025 will be no different. If this is yours, start by signing up for a library card (free), and make a conscious effort to borrow items from the library that you would normally pay to rent or own. Books and movies are obvious examples (not to mentioned swapping your paid Audible account for our free Libby and hoopla apps), but that’s not all we have to offer! Start your garden this year with free seeds from our Seed Library, borrow puzzles and games for screen-free entertainment, and check out everything from a Car Diagnostic Scanner to a Trail Camera from our Library of Things. If you’re curious about what else we have, stop by our Library of Things Demo day on Jan. 25 from 12-2 p.m. to try them out. In addition to all the items you can borrow rather than buy, we have a ton of great guidebooks on saving money that can give you even more tips.

Another common resolution is to take up a new hobby, or learn something new. Again, the library is the key! Learn a new language with our Mango Languages app, get started on your genealogical research with Ancestry® Library Edition, or check out a guide to woodworking, guitar playing, podcasting, and much more. If you prefer to learn with others (or, if you also have a resolution to meet new people!) there are a huge number of fantastic groups that meet at the library, such as the Film Club, Knit & Crochet group, Cookbook Club, Irish language classes with the Irish Coastal Club, various book discussions, and much more.

Speaking of social groups, you might make a resolution to spend more time with family and friends … why not do that at the library? Ours Youth Services departments plan tons of programs that appeal to families, from low-key storytimes to larger events like Lunar New Year parties. Even if nothing is scheduled, the Kids Room is a great place to spend quality, engaging time with the little ones. There’s plenty for adults, as well; you could plan an evening out with friends, starting at a library for one of our art exhibit openings, literary lectures, and film screenings before moving downtown, or just enjoy a walk in the park while you catch up with the latest gossip. Take a look at our calendar of upcoming events, and I have no doubt you’ll find numerous programs that appeal to you and your loved ones.

We’re looking forward to seeing you in 2025, and helping you have the best year yet!

by Cassie Skobrak, Adult Services Librarian