Your local library can be a great money saving spot to put in your arsenal of ways to save money. Everyone can obtain a library card for FREE. All that is usually required is proof of address.

Here are some of the many ways you can save by utilizing your library:

• Instead of purchasing books, borrow them instead. If your library does not carry the book you are looking for speak to a librarian to see if they have a way of obtaining the book you want. Most libraries can do what is called an inter library loan by which your library borrows a book from another library.
• Borrow DVD’s and CD’s. Most libraries carry a nice selection of movies and music which you can check out for loan for free.
• Catch up on your favorite magazines and newspapers by borrowing them from the library. Sometimes the newspapers are not available for check out, but you can still read them there at the library.
• Cut your internet bill by using the computers at the library. If you don’t have a computer at home or are considering the need to cut this bill from your budget you can still access the internet from your library. Most libraries have a time limit and waiting times can be long for heavy use times, but if you just want to pop online once in a while to do some research or check emails this can be a viable option.
• Print, copy and fax. Many libraries offer the use of printers, copiers and fax machines often for a nominal charge of 5-10 cents per page. This is usually cheaper than using a service like Kinkos.
• Learn something or just while away a few hours by taking advantage of the classes, art shows, lectures, story times (for children), book clubs and other activities offered at most libraries. To find out what is offered at your library just ask a librarian for a calendar of events or check online.

I am fortunate to live right behind the library and my children and I spend on average 5-10 hours a week at the library checking out books and movies and taking part in the free activities offered there. If you don’t know where your local library is check out publiclibraries.com

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Tags: Activities, Art Show, Book Club, Books, Cds, Class, Computer, Copy, DVD's, Fax, Frugal Activity, Frugal Living, Frugal Tip, Library, Library Card, Magazine, Magazines, Movies, Music, Newspaper, Print, Quick Tip, Story Time
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Sometimes the loaves of the ends of bread won’t get used for toast and sandwiches. But don’t toss them instead here are a few frugal tips to get them used up.

* Bread crumbs - Toss them in a freezer bag and store in the freezer. Once you have a bag full of ends saved up. Spread the slices of bread in a single layer on a baking sheet and dry in a low temperature oven (250 degrees) for an hour or so until the bread is dry and crisp yet not toasted. Whirl the dried bread in a food processor or blender and store bread crumbs in a air tight container. Use in recipes that call for bread crumbs such as meatloaf.
* Feed the birds - Again save your bread loaf ends in a freezer bag in the freezer. Once you have a bag full find a local park or pond and feed the ducks, pigeons, or other local birds. This is a fun frugal activity to do with your children.
* Bread pudding - Bread pudding originated as a frugal recipe to use leftover stale bread. With a few basic ingredients like stale bread, eggs, milk, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg you can make a simply hearty dessert.
* Croutons - Save bread ends in a bag in the freezer till you have a bagful. Then thaw bread, cut into cubes, toss in olive oil or melted butter. Season with your favorite seasonings such as garlic salt, oregano, thyme, or whatever peaks your fancy. Spread cubes of seasoned bread onto a baking sheet and toast in an 350 degree oven for 30-40 minutes stirring occasionally to prevent burning and even toasting. Store cooled croutons in a air tight container or bag.

Find more tips here!

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Tags: Bread, Bread Heel, Bread Pudding, Crouton, Feed The Birds, Frugal Activity, Frugal Living, Frugal Tip
Posted in Quick Tip | 2 Comments »