By Amy Gillentine

A trip to the movies can cost a family of four more than $100. A few new books from the bookstore can quickly add another $100 or more. Art classes, sewing classes, tutoring, printing, and even supplies for a costume all come with a price.

At Pikes Peak Library District, you can do all those things with just a library card. Watch a movie. Check out books. Take an art or sewing class. Print important documents. Use a computer. Get homework help. Create something for Halloween. And keep your cash in your wallet.

For families whose budgets are stretched by higher prices, PPLD offers plenty of ways to spend time together without spending more money. Play games, work on puzzles, attend programs, or try something new in one of our makerspaces or studios. Children ages 9 and older can use many makerspace resources with a parent or guardian, giving families a chance to create something together, whether that means sewing, crafting, or watching a design take shape on a 3D printer.

Students can get help, too. Online tutoring is available 24/7, especially for late-night homework emergencies. In-person math and science help is also available at Library 21c, Old Colorado City Library, and Ruth Holley Library. Visit ppld.org/homework to explore tutoring, research assistance, test preparation, and other academic resources.

And the Library isn’t just for homework. Children and teens can discover games, movies, anime, comics, games, youth programs and plenty of other ways to have fun with their friends. They can check out interactive kits that include popular Magna tiles or ways to build robots. Kids can take their parents on a trip to a museum or other local attraction with a Culture Pass. You can even check out toys from our toy library!

Families aren’t the only ones looking for ways to stretch their budgets. Seniors living on fixed incomes, college students searching for no-cost entertainment, and young adults trying to have a social life without watching their bank balance evaporate can all find something at PPLD.

Stream movies and music. Download audiobooks and eBooks. Borrow board games or cameras or come play a puzzle at the Library. Take a class, explore a new hobby, or simply find a place to spend time with other people.

PPLD also offers no-cost printing, and help writing resumes. The career navigator can help people find work, and there are courses available for adults to learn and grow in their careers.

Your library card can connect you with thousands of things to read, watch, learn, make, and do without adding another charge to your credit card. The value of your library card can quickly add up to hundreds of dollars. The best part? You can do it again next month.

The special thing about the Library — if you aren’t sure you’ll like a new hobby, the latest best-seller, or that expensive toy for your toddler — you aren’t out any money.

Be budget savvy, keep your cash, and get a library card. Month after month, you’ll find a myriad of things to do at PPLD locations. Just go to ppld.org/library-card to sign up.