Do you think your public library is only good for picking up a few novels or books to read? The library is more than just a bookstore. You can pick up things like free passes to museums, which many libraries have on a first-come, first-served basis. Want to see a constellation on a clear night? You can check out telescopes. Want to try an unusual cake recipe? Borrow cake pans and other baking supplies. Want to unplug and do a fun activity with the family? Most libraries have board games, puzzles and other games you can borrow. Some public libraries even have professional clothing like neckties, briefcases and purses to help people look their best for job interviews.

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Want to save money on organic food at the supermarket? One of the easiest ways is to buy non-brand-name and the store’s private label products instead. Previously known as “generic” food, organic store brands are not only certified organic, they are also often made by the same manufacturers of national name brands! In other words, the cheaper store brand is often the exact same product as the national brand sold at the higher price. When you add the savings from your shopper loyalty card, you save even more.

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Here’s one tip to save money and help save your eyes, too: Reduce the brightness on your computer, phone and TV screens. Our digital screens are often set to the highest levels of brightness; the brighter the screen, the more power is used, which raises energy costs and drains batteries more quickly. Simply reduce the screen brightness in the settings section of your device and try to match it to the same brightness as a sheet of white paper under lighting.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION