In challenging economic times, your library is here for you – smart savings start here!
Money Smart Week, April 15-21, 2025, is an opportunity to learn more about saving money and managing your finances. It is recognized every April to empower people with the knowledge and skills needed to make well-informed personal finance choices.
Your library has the resources to help you save money and become more money-smart! The first step is applying for a WNPL card. Sign up for a library card online today, and gain digital access the same day.
Your Ticket to Free Fun
- Attend educational and entertaining programs for all ages for free. Find all library events in the online calendar.
- Register for museum and unique cultural destination passes throughout the Chicagoland area for free or low-cost access.
Connect with Free Wi-Fi & Technology
- Use the Library’s free in-house Wi-Fi and computers to find financial help online.
- Print, copy, scan, and fax economically with library equipment.
Save on Subscription Costs
- Stream or download movies, music and more from hoopla or Kanopy, as alternatives to paid streaming services.
- Consider using the Library’s free newspaper and magazine resources, including the Chicago Tribune, Gale General OneFile, Press Reader.
- Libby is a great resource for e-books and e-audiobooks. It also offers thousands of always-available current issues of popular magazines, such as Better Homes & Gardens, Chicago Magazine, Newsweek, Us Weekly, and Vogue.
Research & Try Before You Buy
- Discover the Library of Things and save money by borrowing for a one-time use, or trying before buying.
- Access Consumer Reports online to read reviews of products before purchasing.
Learn & Improve Your Skills
- Learn for fun or to improve your skills for free by trying Gale Courses, LinkedIn Learning or Udemy.
- Visit The Workshop, the Library’s new makerspace, to create and explore innovative do-it-yourself techniques and equipment.
Plan for Potential Tax Savings
- If your financial plan allows, consider a gift to the library or joining the Legacy Society. There could be tax savings involved, but as always, please consult with a financial professional for advice on your individual or family situation. (And thank you!)
- Declutter and donate books in good condition to the Friends of WNPL used bookstore, BookEnds.
Money Tips You Can Borrow
Joy, Bernadette
Loftsgordon, Amy, author.
Clifford, Denis
Tyson, Eric
