I recently renewed my Allegheny County Library Card at the Upper St. Clair Library, and to my surprise, I received a welcome packet detailing all the services they offer. While I knew libraries had hidden gems, I was amazed by the sheer number of opportunities available for cardholders. Here’s a look at some of the coolest perks you can enjoy at the Upper St. Clair Library that go beyond borrowing books:
11 Things You Can Do with Your Upper St. Clair Library Card:
1. Borrow Giant Yard Games
Play classic games like Bowling, Corn Hole, Disc Golf, Giant Jenga, Tic-Tac-Toe, and more with friends and family—perfect for backyard gatherings!
2. 3D Printing Services
Bring your designs to life! Submit a print file to the library, and they’ll handle the rest. From jewelry to phone accessories, the possibilities are endless. Printing costs just $1 per hour of print time. Need regular prints? They also offer paper copies for $0.15 per black-and-white page and $0.50 per color page.
3. Reserve a Study Room
Need a quiet space? The library offers five private study rooms (for up to four people) that you can reserve—perfect for studying, work, or small meetings.
4. "Books Before" Reading Programs
Help your kids develop strong literacy skills with reading challenges like *1,000 Books Before Kindergarten*, *500 Books Before Middle School*, and more. Track their progress through the Beanstack app and unlock fun milestone rewards!
5. Watch Free Movies & TV Shows with biblio+
Stream unlimited movies and TV shows for free through the biblio+ app, a partnership with the library.
6. Instant Access to eBooks & Audiobooks
Access thousands of eBooks and audiobooks through Libby and Hoopla without even stepping foot in the library. Libby offers 10 loans through the Carnegie Library system, while Hoopla provides instant downloads.
7. Kids & Teens Spaces
Let your children explore, learn, and play in the USC Playroom and Play to Learn space. There are year-round events, storytimes, and arts & crafts for kids and teens. Find more information on the library event calendar (or right here on the MacKID calendar).
8. Tween & Teen Volunteer Program
Middle and high schoolers (grades 6-12) can give back to the community by participating in the library’s volunteer program.
9. Digital Device Assistance & Job Search Help
Need help with your computer, job search, or digital device? The library offers free assistance to adults on various topics.
10. Free or Discounted Tickets to Regional Attractions
Adults (18+) can access free or discounted tickets to local attractions through the RAD Pass program—just by using their library card.
11. Request a Personalized Book Bundle
Can’t decide what to read? Let the library curate a special book bundle for you or your child based on your interests!
It’s amazing how much the Upper St. Clair Library offers! Whether you want to dive into a new hobby, find a quiet study spot, or entertain the kids, there’s something for everyone.
Have you explored any of these resources yet? Is there something great I missed? I’d love to hear what you’ve discovered at your local library! Do your kids have library cards too? If not, check out 5 reasons your kids should have their own library card.
Looking for more local libraries in the South Hills of Pittsburgh? Check out our Library Directory here. And if you’re searching for family-friendly storytimes, don’t miss our easy-to-browse guide to Story Times in the South Hills.
