The New Year has greeted all with an economic downturn that began in December 2007 in the United States and is one which some financial experts suggest may be here for another year or two. As the financial contagion spread to the Caribbean, Government warned of tightening the country’s economic belt. Many citizens have heeded the call and have already begun holding on to their wallets and will continue to do so in the coming months while others have resolved to save greater amounts of money in 2009.

In an effort to save more and spend less NALIS suggests reaching for the library card instead of the credit card, bank card or your wallet. Reaching for the library card gives you access to free books, free internet access and online journals, all of which can help us save that extra needed cash.

NALIS’ collection of fiction, and West Indian fiction can easily keep you entertained and informed. Spending time reading is an easy way to keep entertained if you need to cut down on the ‘liming’ bill. Opt for a night of reading with friends and family.

Access to information can also have a pivotal role in helping all persons ride out the wave of negative economic activity. Come into our library and see what Harold Harnarine says about inflation and the economy in his book ‘A Layman's guide to inflation in Trinidad and Tobago’. Other financial topics are available in the collection of books, periodicals, and journals we offer. Search our online catalog at www.nalis.gov.tt

With registration patrons of our libraries also get access to the Internet for up to one hour at anytime during opening hours. Taking advantage of NALIS’ free Internet access is another way to keep money from jumping out your wallet. Check your e-mails, browse the World Wide Web or if you are into social networking see what your friends are up to on Facebook.

Those who are studying or conducting research would appreciate free access to Ebscohost, First Search, and other online electronic journals. Accessing this service is free to all members of NALIS libraries upon registration.
NALIS urges all to use these suggestions and let libraries be a New Year’s resolution even after the economic downturn.