Libraries: The Actor's Secret Tool
The public library isn’t just a place for the academic or casual reader—it’s an excellent resource for actors. From play catalogues to voice over booths, these hidden gems offer many accessible and affordable tools to budding creatives—as long as you know what to look for.
Plays & Books
Of course, the library has books to borrow, but many of them can benefit your acting career more than you’d think. With collections dedicated to plays, theatre/acting literature, sheet music, and more, there’s so much at your fingertips. Need a new monologue—but not one that everyone else has seen on YouTube or on an online database? You can browse full plays to monologue-specific books to find something perfect for you. Need to print sheet music—but don’t want to purchase your songs online? Some libraries have collections of sheet music that you can copy and use in the future! Maybe you’ll find some lesser known gems that make great audition songs. If you want to expand your knowledge of the entertainment industry and theatrical history, the shelves are teeming with options from current film industry guides to classic texts by Stanislavsky or Meisner. Art doesn’t exist in a vacuum—it’s a conversation with all the history & art that’s come before. The more creative knowledge you have, the more you can play upon those connections in your work.
Printing
If you don’t have access to an at-home printer, the library is a fantastic (and affordable) option for printing out resumes, classwork, or scenes. Most libraries offer low-cost printing options at a cheaper rate than a professional printing service. Some branches like the Los Angeles Public Library and Chicago Public Library offer free printing up to a certain limit.
Tool Libraries
While each location is different, many places have “tool” libraries where you can borrow equipment. From instruments to cameras to audio gear, this resource is great for actors who want to learn new skills or try out new equipment without making the financial investment just yet.
Media Rooms
Media rooms are the holy grail of public libraries for actors. For LA performers, the Los Angeles Public Library has a full media lab complete with photoshoot rooms, editing software, and audio recording booths. The New York Public Library’s Pasculano Learning Center has a full recording studio with state-of-the-art equipment for public access. Whether you’re a musician, voice over performer, or aspiring podcaster, these media rooms give you the tools you need to thrive.
Databases
Watching live theatre—while fun and excellent for honing your craft as an actor—isn’t always financially accessible. Libraries can give you access to online databases like Digital Theatre Plus or Drama Online where you can watch shows with incredible, world-class actors at home. Other databases like Hoopla grant access to audiobooks, music, and much more.
Pursuing a career as an actor takes its financial toll, especially when you’re starting out—classes, headshots, reels, and taking time off your “day job” to shoot new projects can add up. Take advantage of the free resources you have to build your creative career & knowledge without breaking the bank! With a wealth of learning resources, tools, and equipment, the library is an incredible resource for the budding performer.