Libraries offer so much more than books! If you’re in New Bern or the surrounding areas, the New Bern-Craven County Public Library and the Craven-Pamlico Regional Library (CPRL) provide a wealth of free services that can save you money and improve your quality of life. From streaming movies to borrowing Wi-Fi hotspots, your library has resources you may not expect!
Borrow More than Books
Instead of buying expensive gadgets, tools, or entertainment, you can borrow them for free from the New Bern Library! Some of the unique items available include:
Some of the unique items you can check out include:
- Musical instruments: Guitar, trumpet, flute, and clarinet
- Telescope: Perfect for stargazing
- Board games and puzzles: Great for family fun and quiet evenings at home
- Cake pans: Available in fun shapes for birthdays and celebrations
- Slide projector: For viewing old photo slides
- Overhead projector: The classic kind (not the digital/computer-connected type)
- Electronic magnifier: Helpful for people with visual impairments
- Kindle Fire: Pre-loaded with eBooks for convenient digital reading
- Acoustinator: A microwave detection device
- Reminiscent Therapy Kits: Designed to support memory and connection, especially useful for dementia care
- Clean Sweep Cleanup Kits: Tools and supplies for home or neighborhood clean-up projects
- Artwork: Framed pieces you can borrow for home or office decor
- CD player: For listening to your favorite music or audiobooks
- Bird-watching kit: Includes a guidebook and binoculars
This is a great way to try out new hobbies without spending a dime—but that’s not all!
If you don’t have internet at home, you may also be able to borrow Wi-Fi hotspots, Chromebooks, and webcams. This makes it easy to apply for jobs, take online classes, or stay connected without paying for expensive home internet.
Free Streaming & Digital Media
Why pay for Netflix, Audible, or Kindle when your New Bern Library card gives you free access to:
- Hoopla
- Just for Kids Streaming Collection
- Access Video on Demand
- Films on Demand Video Collection
- Comics Plus
- Libby
With these services, you can enjoy entertainment without a single subscription fee—saving you hundreds of dollars per year! Remember, there are other ways to unlock free streaming services too!
Free Online Learning & Job Help
You can learn new skills, prepare for tests, and boost your career—for free through CPRL’s online learning resources.
- Take Free Online Courses: With your library card, you get access to Universal Class, which offers over 500 free courses in topics like computer skills, business and personal finance, arts and crafts, GED and career test prep from LearningExpress.
- Job Help & Resume Support: The library also offers workshops on resume building, job applications, digital literacy and computer skills.
If you’re looking to improve your job prospects, your library can help—for free!
Free Books & Reading Perks
Sure, you already know that your library can hook you up with books, but the New Bern Craven County Library has put a fun twist on this as well.
- Book Club Kits: Want to start or join a book club? These kits include 10 copies of a book plus a discussion guide, so everyone can read along without having to buy a copy.
- StoryWalks: Located at Creekside Park and Martin Marietta Park, these outdoor reading paths display children’s books one page at a time along a trail—perfect for families who love to read and explore together.
- Genealogy & Local History: The Kellenberger Room is packed with resources for family tree research and New Bern history. Explore historic newspapers, census records, property deeds, and personal interviews from the Memories of New Bern oral history project.
Other Services from the New Bern Library
The library also offers a variety of practical services that can make everyday tasks easier and more affordable.
- Low-Cost Printing: Print important documents for just 15 cents per page (black & white).
- Free Tax Help: During tax season, many CPRL branches offer free tax preparation services for low-income residents.
- Mobile Library Services: The CPRL Book/Tech Mobile brings books, laptops, and free Wi-Fi directly to neighborhoods, senior centers, and community events. You can get a library card, borrow books, or use a laptop—right from the mobile library van.
Relief Recap
Whether you’re looking to save money, explore new interests, get help with job hunting, or simply enjoy free entertainment, the New Bern-Craven County Public Library and the Craven-Pamlico Regional Library system have you covered. From streaming services and online learning to borrowing Wi-Fi hotspots and unique tools, your library offers real, practical support for everyday life.
