The following information was submitted by Joanne Griffin, reference librarian at the Des Plaines Public Library.

Years ago, while paying for a pair of new eyeglasses, I discovered that my AAA membership gave me a discount at that eyeglass retailer. The lesson learned? Not all membership benefits are the obvious ones. This is true with your Des Plaines Public Library card, too. Using your library card to borrow the latest book, DVD or magazine is just the beginning of your membership benefits.

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Your Des Plaines library membership gives you access to a variety of services and information, including the following examples.

• If you are looking to purchase a new appliance, you can access Consumer Reports Online with your library card.
• If you want some free, legal music downloads that you can keep forever, you can access Freegal from the library’s website.
• If your third-grader is doing a report on zebras, use the online version of World Book Encyclopedia.
• Learn a new language, download a legal form, research a stock or company, find the financial strength rating of a bank or insurance company or do genealogy research — all starting at the library’s home page.

Get started today and sign up for the card that gives you access to a world of values. Stop by the library with a photo ID and proof of a current incorporated Des Plaines address. Please contact us at (847) 827-5551 with any questions.

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