Planning a family road trip can be daunting. Depending on the age of your kids, it’s important to pack snacks, some kind of entertainment, enough clothes, meals when there’s no time to stop and more. As far as entertainment is concerned, libraries can help cover the gap for road trip necessities.
Taking a trip to your local library can feel like going on a shopping spree. Thousands of books, movies, magazines, video games, board games and more line the walls — all free for the taking as long as they are returned on time and in the same condition. Make sure your kids can take proper care of the borrowed materials for the duration of the trip to avoid hefty fees upon return.
Libraries typically have pretty liberal borrowing policies. All libraries have different restrictions, but some allow guests to check out up to 50 physical items at a time.
Libraries are packed with content of all kinds. From picture books to young adult and teen novels, there’s bound to be something for kids of all ages and preferences. You can also pick a book or two for downtime when you aren’t driving or for unwinding before bed.
Make sure to make use of the library’s electronic media offerings. Lots of travelers, be they little kids or adults, have game systems that work while traveling. One of these, the Nintendo Switch, offers tons of family-friendly options, perfect for entertaining one or more kids on a road trip. Libraries often have pretty good stock of these games, making sure kids can get something fun for their long road trip.
Make use of local libraries during your journey. Maybe you will need to print tickets or documents for school or work — libraries can definitely help out in these situations.
Keep due dates straight. Make sure you will be returning to your town before the borrowed items are due back. Most libraries are lenient, and many have even begun to abolish due dates, but returning books on time and in good condition is respectful and considerate to the institution that provided entertainment for the entire family on your trip.
Read This Next
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Mar 27, 20243 Family-Friendly Hotels in Baltimore
Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is surrounded by activities and attractions to keep families busy for several days, and for those who travel to get there, a trio of nearby hotels welcome children with amenities such as swimming pools, kid-sized bathrobes and bunk beds.
Sponsored Content
Interior Upgrades Begin Rolling Out Across United Fleet
United Airlines is in the midst of a major initiative to modernize its fleet over the next several years. After first announcing the plan in 2021, planes fitted with United’s signature interior are finally beginning to appear across the airline’s narrowbody fleet of Boeing and Airbus planes. United flyers are sure to notice these enhancements from the moment they step on board: Each new or updated plane sports remodeled seats, seatback entertainment screens for everyone, Bluetooth connectivity and more, all adding up to a better experience on every journey.
Destinations / North America
Mar 26, 2024Spring Festivals in New Orleans
Spring has sprung in New Orleans, Louisiana, for family travelers! Bring your crew to the Big Easy this season for a variety of family-friendly festivals, events and attractions.
Destinations / North America
Mar 26, 2024Spring Adventures in New River Gorge
New River Gorge, America’s newest national park at less than 4 years old, was formed by one of America’s oldest rivers. New River surges through deep canyons, surrounded by a rugged landscape of forests and rock cliffs. Family travelers to this 70,000-acre park will find outdoor sports and adventures for the whole family.
Sponsored Content
Make the Most of Hamad International Airport When Transferring
Making travel plans can be exciting; did you know planning on how to spend time at the airport the right way can enrich the overall trip experience? As a transfer hub, traveling through Doha's Hamad International Airport is a unique experience, as waiting never feels like waiting at one of the best airports in the world.
North America
Mar 26, 2024Don’t Miss Grande Lakes Orlando’s Modern Willy Wonka Golden Ticket Experience
If you hear the phrase “golden ticket,” you’re apt to think of Willy Wonka and the popular films to have come from the franchise. But did you know Grande Lakes Orlando takes the golden ticket concept one step further? This spring, the popular resort pays homage to the classic film and recent movie Wonka with a one-of-a-kind Golden Ticket Experience.
ShareThis