11 Reasons to Love Your Local Library

April 23 to 29 is National Library Week, and there is oh-so-much to love about Washington County libraries! Whether you’re a longtime patron or a new cardholder, you may not know about all the incredible benefits available to you. Below is a list of our top 11 library perks (some you can take advantage of from the convenience of home)!

1. WCCLS Adventure Pass

Reserve free admission for you and a guest to visit popular destinations like Pittock Mansion, Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks & Minerals, Portland Japanese Garden, and more.

2. The New York Times

Enjoy unlimited online access to The New York Times. Coverage includes world news, national news, investigative reporting, op-eds, lifestyle, daily crossword and more. View all articles published between 1851 and 1922, and from 1981 to present day.

3. Digital magazines and newspapers

Get unlimited access to more than 7,000 of the world’s top magazines and newspapers. Browse current publications from 120 countries in 60 languages – translation and audio are available! Read in your browser or download the PressReader app.

4. Streaming movies

From indie flicks and classics to documentaries and foreign films, stream thousands of movies.

5. E-books and audiobooks

Browse thousands of e-books and audiobooks that you can read or listen to on the go. High-contrast, large print and dyslexic fonts are available. Bonus: Digital books automatically get returned on the due date, keeping hold times down and saving gas.

6. 16 unique locations

Small and mighty, big and bright, each Washington County library has something different to offer. Search the event calendar for storytimes, book groups, game nights, classes, and craft activities happening at one of the 16 library locations near you.

7. Makerspaces

Several libraries offer makerspaces, a community room where you can create, design and try something new. Equipment typically includes 3D printers, sewing machines, laser cutters, button makers, as well as supplies for fine art, paper crafts, fiber arts, and more. Offerings and hours vary by location. Visit the websites for Hillsboro Public Library, Beaverton City Library, and Tualatin Public Library for more information.

8. Library of Things

The Library of Things is a collection of non-traditional library items that provide you with the physical objects needed to explore interests, new and old. Items range from kitchenware and tools to technology and musical instruments. Oh, there's also a robotic companion cat you can borrow.

9. World’s biggest board game collection

WCCLS is home to more than 2,000 board games, making it the largest circulating board game collection among any public library system. Check out an old favorite or try something new!

10. Free wi-fi

All 16 library locations in Washington County offer free wi-fi (courtesy of WCCLS). You don’t even need to buy a cup of coffee or a muffin to enjoy reliable, high-speed internet.

11. No late fees

As of January 2021, WCCLS libraries no longer charge late fees for overdue materials. Fees will be applied only if an item is lost or damaged.

If you or someone you love doesn't have a library card, now is the perfect time to get one! WCCLS library cards are free to residents of Washington County.