Do you like saving money? Check out 10 easy ways to cut some costs with your local library!
1. Borrow your next fun read
Don’t spend your entire reading budget at the shops. Instead, head to your local library and grab whatever BookTok is telling you to be obsessed with this week.
Want the newest stuff? Hit up the Most Wanted collection, or place a reservation and chill until your inbox tells you it’s ready to collect.
2. Audiobooks straight to your phone
Cancel your paid audiobook subscriptions and download BorrowBox or Libby instead.
Audiobooks and eBooks, free with your library card, streaming directly to your phone - perfect for walks, your commute, or pretending you’re productive while doing housework.
3. Don’t pay for movies
Skip the cinema ticket and come to a free library event instead.
Movie sessions, Storytimes, FrankTALKs, workshops - sometimes monthly, sometimes weekly, always free. Keep your eye on the website - or better yet, sign up to our eNewsletter to get FREE events and activities straight to your inbox fortnightly.
4. Library of Things
Why buy when you can borrow?
Fix, make, or improve your stuff with tools and gadgets from the Library of Things. It’s better for your wallet and the planet. Win-win.
5. Seed library
Start with parsley or coriander and stop paying supermarket prices for herbs. Tiny seeds, big savings! You can take up to 3 packets of seeds every time your visit the library and use those pots, garden beds, and planters to save cash! Flower, vege and herb seeds are in bloom at Carrum Downs, Frankston and Seaford Libraries.
6. Don’t pay for parking
Yes, really.
Parking is free for 2 hours at the Arts Centre or in the Young Street car park. More money saved before you’re even through the door. Just grab your voucher from the enquiry desk on your way out of Frankston Library. And remember - parking is also free at Carrum Downs and Seaford!
7. Drop in and hang out
The library is a free, welcoming space to just… exist.
Use the Wi‑Fi, enjoy the heating (or cooling), study spaces with power, bathrooms, and even free period products. No purchase required, no pressure to leave.
8. Eat at home (and enjoy it)
Get inspired by our giant cookbook collection - yes, including RecipeTin Eats. Let’s normalise eating at home again and taking the time to create delicious meals this winter.
9. Cancel your streaming service (or at least cut back)
Have you ever done a streaming service audit? If you're anything like us, there will be at least one in there that you have not used for months. Between Hoopla, Kanopy, and even the classic DVD and BluRay collection, your next binge-watch is already sorted - for free.
10. Hire a pod for free
Need a quiet place to work, study, meet, or prep for an interview?
Book a pod at Frankston or Carrum Downs Library—free, professional, and way nicer than shouting over café noise. Just give the library a call to book a time.
At a time when many everyday costs are increasing, the library remains a reliable and accessible community resource. From entertainment and learning to practical tools and welcoming spaces, these free services are designed to support residents in meaningful, real‑world ways. By making the most of what your local library offers, you can save money, discover new interests and stay connected—without sacrificing quality or enjoyment. Visit your library and explore how much is available at no cost.