Libraries Are For Everyone
Public libraries are a valuable resource with free offerings for every person it serves. They offer in-person or online services for their patrons providing tools, materials, and support that help people read, learn, create, and explore. They are a place for everyone! Each library has its core services and services that may be unique to that branch. All it takes to get these services is to sign up for a library card!
Libraries are for everyone, including music lovers. Libraries have resources and services that allow people to learn, listen, and explore.
Learn the Story Behind the Sound:
Dive into music history, biographies of artists, genres, and cultural movements with books, documentaries, and scholarly articles—all available for free with your library card.
African American Music Trails of Eastern North Carolina: Kinston Area
Old-Time Music Audio Recordings and Oral Histories on DigitalNC
Read & Borrow Sheet Music:
Browse downloadable scores from online archives like UNC 19th Century American Sheet Music Collection that contains approximately 3,500 popular vocal and instrumental titles from the 1830s to the end of the century
Old-Time Music Audio Recordings and Oral Histories Now Available on DigitalNC
Enjoy Music Streaming:
Check out platforms for streaming music in addition to carrying music for checking out in person.
Lincoln County Public Library eMusic
Track Music Library (Chapel Hill Public Library)
Take Up a New Instrument:
Some libraries lend instruments or offer instructional guides.
Stuff to Borrow - Transylvania County Library
Access for ABLS patrons:
Current ABLS patrons can access the NLS Catalog and borrow from its special format music collection consisting of over 25,000 audio, braille, and large print music scores, texts, and instructional materials."
Music Service and Materials - National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS)
Books for Everyone
Libraries provide access to a wide range of stories. Fiction collections offer leisure reading for all interests and ages. They offer your classic novels, a wide variety of genres, graphic novels and manga, children’s books, and more to explore. In addition, their nonfiction collection supports research and personal enrichment. Many libraries also maintain expansive reference collections to assist with schoolwork and personal projects, along with local history rooms and genealogy resources.
As a special, government library, Government and Heritage Library offers materials and tools to help you explore the history, culture, and past of families in North Carolina, both in-person and online.
Accessible Books
Libraries make books available in multiple formats. Audiobooks are often available through apps such as Libby, Hoopla, or Boundless. Many libraries maintain large print collections for aging populations. Accessible Books & Library Services specializes in serving individuals with print disabilities, providing in-person, remote, and online access to materials designed to meet a wide range of reading needs.
Reference and Information Services
Library staff are ready to help their patrons find accurate and reliable information or locate the resources they need. Some libraries offer reference interviews, allowing patrons to receive personalized guidance as they search for materials or information.
Technology and Services
Libraries support learning, connection, and creativity through a variety of technology and services. Visitors can connect their personal devices to library Wi-Fi or use public computer labs. Some libraries offer tablets or other technology for checkout. Study rooms can provide a quiet place to work, and makerspaces allow visitors to explore hands-on creativity with all sorts of specialized equipment.
Programs for All Ages
Libraries often offer programs designed for people of all ages. Children’s activities encourage early learning and creativity, while teen programs provide support and enrichment. Adult programming may include book discussions, workshops, or learning opportunities. Many libraries also offer programming for older adults, supporting lifelong learning and engagement.
Specialty Services
Libraries offer more than books at different locations. The Library of Things may allow visitors to borrow tools, instruments, equipment, or household items; there are seed libraries which patrons can use for gardening. Additionally, home services may be available for individuals who cannot visit the library in person.
Libraries themselves also receive support through consulting, trainings, and development resources. Library Development expands collections through resource sharing within the NC Cardinal consortium, provides continuing education for library staff, administers state and federal grants, and provides youth and adult services consulting.
Visit Your Library
Public libraries offer even more than what has been mentioned here. Each library is unique to meet the needs of the people it serves. Take some time to visit your library, sign-up for a library card, and learn about what these institutions have to offer you.