If you are one of the almost 18,000 people who live within the boundaries of the Tamaqua Area School District, there is a treasure trove of information available to you at the Tamaqua Public Library.

It’s a library, so you expect there to be books and magazines to lend, but did you know the library also offers audio books, DVDs, children’s e-books, fax and copy services, public access computers, free Wi-Fi, tax forms and research material dating back to 1874?

The library, located at 30 S. Railroad St., Tamaqua, offers all of its service free to its members. Becoming a member is simple and it’s free for TASD residents. It’s also very economical for anyone living outside Schuylkill County, just $10 per year per family, or complimentary if you already have a membership card from another library.

To apply, you will need a valid, government issued photo I.D. containing a current address. Due to past difficulties, all new members will be subject to a six-month probationary status. During that time, you may borrow two items at a time (children 17 and under are limited to one item at a time). A total of 12 items per adult and five per child, must be borrowed and returned to establish credibility.

At the successful completion of the probationary status, borrowing limits are increased to 10 items at a time for adults and five items per child.

Hours are: Monday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Friday, noon to 5 p.m.; and Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.