10 Things You Didn't Know About the Newton Free Library

You know the Newton Free Library is the place to go for your book and research needs in town, right?

But if you're just breezing in and breezing out, you could be missing out on some of the hidden gems the library has to offer. Take a look at this list of factoids about your local library. We're willing to bet there's something here you didn't know.

1. It's popular. The Newton Free Library has the second highest circulation numbers in the entire state, according to the 2012 annual report numbers. It was second only to the Boston Public Library system, which has 26 branches and even then achieved only double the circulation of the single branch of the Newton Free Library.

2. Speaking of popular... If the Children's Library within the Newton Free Library was counted as its own entity, it would be the fourth highest circulation library in the state, according to 2012 numbers.

3. Hidden art museum. The Newton Free Libraries walls and display cases are filled with museum-worthy artwork. There's an audio tour, digital tour or you can pick up a hard copy of the art tour when you arrive at the library.

4. Budding artists on display. The library offers free display space to art students from Newton North and Newton South high schools. The works are framed for free and remain up for six months. From spring to fall, Newton South work is displayed. From fall to spring, Newton North work is up.

5. Tablet technology. The library has an iPad available in the teen area where users can learn about and use the technology.

6. Beyond English. The Newton Free Library stocks a large collection of foreign language books, audio books and DVDs, including an enormous array of Russian titles.

7. Beyond words. Adventurous musicians can also find something new to explore at the Newton Free Library, which houses a large and varied collection of sheet music for various instruments.

8. Database heaven. Remember all those academic databases you had access to while in college? Well, with your Newton Free Library card you still have access to many of them. The library subscribes to hundreds of databases covering every possible topic including an extensive collection of tools for job seekers such as tools for developing a resume or online presence.

9. Digital archives. The Newton Free Library is in the process of digitizing thousands of photos, maps, documents and more that tell the story of the city's history. The Flikr page alone features more than 3,000 images. Check out the Newton History section on the library's homepage. (It's under the Reference menu).

10. Swap it out. Finished with an old magazine but hate just tossing it in the recycling bin? The library has a magazine swap option in the main lobby. Bring your issue in, leave it behind and go home with a new issue of something else to read. No checkout necessary.