Big increase in public library usage

MIAMI (WSVN) -- Miami-Dade public libraries are seeing an increase in use as the United States suffers some of the toughest economic times in recent history.

People all around South Florida are taking advantage of the free resources that the public library has to offer. "You see people that can't afford any longer to maintain their subscription like Net Flix and Blockbuster, and they're maybe coming here to look into the kind of things that we're offering for them," said Miami-Dade Public Library Director Raymond Santiago.

Isabel Carminate is a regular at the Flagler branch library. She is finding it financially more convenient to bring her children to a place where there are more resources available. "Here I have other computers. I don't have to buy computers for anyone at home, I have it here. If I need to make copies, I have a photocopy here. I don't have a photocopier at home," said Carminate.

Last summer, there was a 20 percent increase in library users. The increase has doubled during the school year and have parents and children taking advantage of the library's free services. "I can read books, and I can do my homework, and my mom is here to help me. If I have time to spare, I can use the computer," said library user Jennifer Somuano.

To obtain a library card visit your local library and fill out an application. Make sure you bring a valid ID.

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