If you’re looking for ways to save money on entertainment and education, then look no further than your library card.
Ipswich Libraries is home to an extensive collection of print books, but that isn’t all it has on offer.
Across its six branches, plus the Karalee Library Pod and online Virtual Branch, Ipswich Libraries provides members with access to eBooks and eAudiobooks, music, movies, magazines, workshops and more – for free.
Here are seven surprising ways to save money with your library card.
#1: Stream your favourite films for free
Save on your streaming subscriptions and enjoy films and documentaries, all free of charge, through Kanopy.
With a collection of more than 30,000 award-winning films and documentaries available on-demand, you can watch ad-free from the comfort of your home.
You can also keep the little ones entertained with Kanopy Kids, which offers a range of educational children’s movies and TV shows – all free with your Ipswich Libraries membership.
#2: Study and socialise without spending a cent
Looking for a quiet place to read or study? Need to access a computer or WiFi? Or maybe you’re looking for a place to meet?
Your Ipswich Libraries membership gives you free access to public computers, and bookable meeting rooms and study pods.
Each branch offers a range of facilities to members to help you collaborate and stay connected.
#3: Save with free eBooks, eAudiobooks, and more
From comics and manga, to newspapers and magazines, plus books and audiobooks, Ipswich Libraries has something for every reader.
Your membership provides you with access to BorrowBox, Libby, CloudLibrary, PressReader and Comics Plus, which allows you to browse, borrow, and enjoy digital library content anywhere, anytime.
#4: Explore endless kids entertainment at no cost
Discover a world of education and entertainment for your little ones, all free with your library card.
Ipswich Libraries members have free access to Story Box Library, where Australian children’s books come to life through the voices of Australian storytellers.
For kids aged between 3 and 11, you can access more than 130 games for free using BusyThings. The app includes a treasure trove of interactive games that teach early literacy, numeracy, art and music.
#5: Fee-free learning with your library card
Want to learn something new or advance your skills? Your Ipswich Libraries membership gives you free access to thousands of expert-led, online courses through LinkedIn Learning covering everything from business and design to tech and creative industries.
You can also get real-time academic support and writing feedback through Studiosity.
So you can learn what you want, when you want – with no fees and no pressure.
#6: Trace your family tree for free
Delve into your ancestry or learn more about local history through Ipswich Libraries. Members are given free access to Ancestry.com (library edition) and MyHeritage, where you can search census, birth, marriage, death records and more from Australia and beyond.
You can also uncover the past with Picture Ipswich, an online collection of historical and contemporary photographs that bring the city’s story to life.
#7: Explore free events and workshops
Your Ipswich Libraries membership unlocks a calendar of free events and programs for all ages.
From story time sessions to creative workshops, there’s always something new to experience. It’s a great way to learn, create and connect with the community.
Ipswich Libraries includes the Ipswich Central Library and Ipswich Children’s Library in Tulmur Place, Springfield Central Library, Redbank Plaza Library, Redbank Plains Library, Rosewood Library, the Karalee Library Pod as well as the online Virtual Branch.
Membership is free to residents of Ipswich and Queensland. Ready to sign up? Simply join online, or at any branch of the library, by presenting proof of your name and current address.