US library cards become unexpected money-saving tool; Brooklyn adds 150,018 members in 2026

A library card is becoming an unexpected money-saving tool for Americans, as public libraries expand beyond books and offer access to free entertainment, technology help, community services and, in some places, discounts at local businesses.In Glenview, Illinois, a Chicago suburb, the local library partnered with businesses during September's Library Card Sign-Up Month to offer special deals to cardholders. Offers included discounts on purchases and services, with one deal offering 10% off wine and another providing a free month of robotics classes, according to Fortune.The initiative comes as Americans continue to deal with rising household costs. Consumer prices were up 3.4% over the previous year, according to data cited by Fortune, making free or discounted services increasingly attractive to households looking to reduce spending. But the savings available through a library card extend well beyond local business promotions.More than booksMany US libraries now give cardholders access to digital services including ebooks, audiobooks, movies and television content through platforms such as Libby and Hoopla. That can provide an alternative to paid entertainment subscriptions. Fortu...