Take It for a Test Drive

By Betsy O'Neil, Reference Librarian

December 29, 2010

Recently, I considered buying a new flat-screen TV and had difficulty deciding between the many models available. It is amazing to see how many options there are within the Plasma, LED and LCD families. I finally narrowed down my choice, but it was not easy.

I read reviews in magazines, checked blogs online and talked with people about their experiences. I spent time comparing the various models at retail outlets in town. All of this research gave me peace of mind that I would ultimately buy the right TV for me.

What big ticket items are on your list this year? The Library can be a great help in figuring out what to buy. Reference Librarians are on hand to help you find books, magazines and other resources to make the best possible purchase decisions.

I recommend coming to the Library and looking through “Consumer Reports” to get an idea of the product you want to buy. You will find reviews on hundreds of major consumer products – TVs, computers, vehicles, dishwashers, cell phones and even toaster ovens.

The Library is also a great place to sample books or magazines before you buy them. We have an incredible selection of magazines on the main floor. Before buying a yearly subscription for yourself or someone else, be sure to sample a few issues at the Library first.

The same goes for books. My almost two-year-old son loves to read and I have a small bookshelf of children’s books that we personally own. It is nice to always have these books on hand to read and reread to him.

However, he can be pretty fickle about what he likes, so I usually check a new book out from the library first to make sure it holds his interest. If it looks to be a favorite I buy it and give it a place on his special bookshelf.

I do the same with books I am interested in. Recently, I ran across the cookbook, “Jamie’s Food Revolution” by Jamie Oliver at the library and checked it out. I was so impressed with the cookbook and always wanted to have it on hand that I decided to buy it.

On the other hand, I have also checked out quite a few cookbooks that I knew were not for me after trying a few recipes. I was sure glad to return them knowing I had not spent a dime.

Try-before-you-buy works well for new goals and projects too. Thinking of trying a new diet for the New Year? Check it out from the library first to see if you like it. Our diet section has everything from Atkins to The Zone. If we do not have the one you are looking for, we will do our best to get it for you.

Before you invest your time or money into a new diet, budget, house project, craft or hobby, book, author or big ticket purchase, sample the options so you know what will (or won’t) work for you. “Take it for a test drive” with the help of your Natrona County Public Library.

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