Throughout the digital age libraries have adapted and grown with the times , in many cases serving as de facto community centers instead of just book-lending institutions . Most branches now offer audio and electronic books , movies via streaming services , museum passes , music and more . Many also have a library of things , where you can check out cool gadgets like video game systems , metal detectors , musical instruments , telescopes and Cricut machines .

There are seventy-one public libraries in the Ocean State Libraries ’ system , each with its own creative offerings . And nothing ’ s stopping you from visiting them all ! Don ' t want to travel ? If your local branch doesn ' t have what you are looking for , your librarian can have that item shipped to your library for pickup in a matter of days through the interlibrary loan system . Every branch is listed on the website : oslri . org .

GET CARDED Anyone who lives in or pays property taxes in Rhode Island is eligible for a library card . Head to your local library or visit oslri . org / application to fill out an application .

LIBRARIES OF THINGS Some unexpected gadgets and gizmos you can borrow from your local library .

Barrington Public Library : GoPro camera , Nintendo NES system , metal detector , outdoor movie screen , pickleball set .

Coventry Public Library : Ghost hunting kit , giant Jenga set , fishing poles , microscope , ukuleles , VHS to DVD converter .

Newport Public Library : Allen wrenches , calligraphy set , sewing machine , shoe stretchers , clothes steamer , acoustic guitar .

Weaver Public Library , East Providence : Cornhole set , CD player , Cricut cutting machine , power washer , popcorn machine .

MUSEUM PASSES A smattering of reduced-cost museum and attraction passes you can find at local libraries . ( Each library varies ; visit a branch ’ s website to see exact offerings .)

• Battleship Cove

• Boston Children ’ s Museum

• Museum of Fine Arts , Boston

• Museum of Science , Boston

• Mystic Seaport Museum

• New England Aquarium , Boston

• Providence Children ’ s Museum

• RISD Museum

• Roger Williams Park Zoo

• Save the Bay ’ s Hamilton Family Aquarium

• Tomaquag Museum

GRAPHIC : GETTY IMAGES .

66 RHODE ISLAND MONTHLY ’ S NEWCOMERS ’ GUIDE l 2024