Are Libraries Relevant in 2022? Yes—and They Boost Real Estate Values!

It’s easy to forget about libraries among all the new ways we have to consume media. There’s a lot of competition between streaming, ebooks, news apps, social media, and the good ole internet. But in addition to offering all that (for free!), modern libraries are also community power centers that have a big impact on home values in their local areas. Don’t believe us? Read on.

No, definitely not!

Modern libraries are high-tech, multimedia community centers—not the dusty room of old books you might be envisioning. Most offer computers for personal use, internet access, meeting spaces, printing services, movies, games, comics, music, magazines, and of course, an extensive collection of books across categories and genres—completely free to use.

Books at the library aren’t only available in physical paper format, either. You can check out audiobooks and ebooks at most libraries. No, really! Some libraries offer ebooks on their own websites, but if not, check out the Libby app, enter your library card number, and never spend money on ebooks again.

Wish you could find reliable information away from social media and news sites? Head to your library. Library staff are knowledgeable and always happy to help you find what you’re looking for. It doesn’t have to be a book, either. Whether you’re searching for straight facts about a big topic like climate change and going green, clarification on local elections or tax requirements, or simple subjects like local events, your library is the place to go.

Even better, if your library doesn’t have what you’re looking for, a member of the staff can help you order it from another branch so you can pick it up when and where it’s convenient for you.

Montgomery County Public Libraries also offer an online learning center where you can research everything from Auto & Engine repair to World Languages. There you’ll also find resources for teachers and homework help as well as academic and workforce test preparation. Can’t make it into the library? Try MCPL’s Ask A Librarian tool to submit a question.

Besides story times and kid-centric events, libraries offer practical resources for school-aged kids and teens. In Montgomery County, kids and teens can get homework help, join writers' groups and book clubs, and prepare for college at no cost. Start with the early literacy guide for your youngest household members and keep going all the way into adulthood.

Looking for a job? Montgomery County Public Libraries offers a variety of online resources for job seekers as well as computer use and printing services to help you reach your goals. Topics include resume writing, continuing education, local job listings, and more.

Haven’t found your job yet? MCPL also provides unemployment resources on this page to assist you in the meantime.

Furthermore, libraries are a great place to connect with others. Montgomery County libraries have an extensive local events calendar that includes storytimes for kids, book clubs and language learning groups for adults, classes, seminars, fitness groups, arts and crafts, and much more. Events are categorized by age group and include kids, teens, adults, and seniors so everyone can find somewhere to belong. Events are in person and online to provide accessibility to the greatest number of people.

Libraries have a lot to offer in 2022, and that makes them desirable community amenities. They help build local economies through job creation and workforce development. They also bring an influx of money to the businesses in their immediate vicinity through “halo spending.” This economic impact and libraries’ community-building power translate to an overall higher quality of life.

A higher quality of life makes areas surrounding a library more desirable, driving demand for homes and home values higher. A study from the American Library Association found that “homes within ¼ mile of a library are worth, on average, $9,630 more than homes more than ¼ mile from a library.” If you’re house hunting, consider a location near a library for an instant boost in value—and easy access to all the goodness your library has to offer.

Don’t have a library card yet? No worries. It’s free and easy to get one—just head to your local branch and sign up. If you’re not sure where your closest library is, take a look at the list below.

We specialize in doing the undoable. Whatever feels impossible is a challenge we can’t wait to take on—whether that’s finding a home next door to your favorite library, buying and selling a home at the same time, staying under budget amidst intense competition, or something else. Fill out the form below to get started so we can help you conquer your impossible.

Looking for a home with an amazing reading space? Give us a call at 301-200-4767 to start your search.