Sault Ste. Marie Public Library Services Every Resident Should Use
Quick Tip
Show your library card to access free digital subscriptions, 3D printing, and rare local history photos without paying a dime.
This post breaks down the most valuable services at the Sault Ste. Marie Public Library — resources that save you money, connect you with skills, and keep you informed about what's happening in our community. Whether you're a lifelong resident or new to the area, these tools are worth your time.
What free digital resources does the Sault Ste. Marie Public Library offer?
The library gives cardholders free access to LinkedIn Learning, Ancestry Library Edition, and a massive collection of e-books and digital magazines through the Libby app by OverDrive. You can stream professional courses, research family history back generations, or download a mystery novel at 2 a.m. — no late fees, no hassle. (All you need is a library card — and yes, it's completely free for Sault Ste. residents.)
How can you borrow e-books and audiobooks from the Sault Ste library?
Download the Libby app, enter your Sault Ste. Marie Public Library card number, and start borrowing instantly. The collection includes current bestsellers, celebrated Canadian authors, and audiobooks perfect for commutes across the International Bridge or walks along the St. Marys River. If a title is checked out, you can place a hold and get an email the moment it's ready. That said, the wait times for popular new releases are often shorter than you'd expect.
What in-person services are available at Sault Ste. Marie library branches?
Beyond books, both the Centennial Library on East Street and the Northern Avenue Branch offer 3D printing, reservable meeting rooms, and public computers with high-speed internet. Staff at the reference desk can help with résumé formatting, local history research, and understanding government forms. Here's a quick look at what each branch excels at:
| Service | Centennial Library (50 East Street) | Northern Avenue Branch |
|---|---|---|
| 3D Printing | Yes | Yes |
| Study Rooms | 6 reservable rooms | 2 reservable rooms |
| Children's Programming | Extensive — story times, crafts, STEM kits | Limited |
| Accessible Parking | Underground lot | Surface lot |
The Centennial Library also hosts rotating local art exhibits and author talks — events that bring our community together and showcase Sault Ste. talent you won't find anywhere else in town. Worth noting: the library partners with the City of Sault Ste. Marie to run literacy programs and summer reading challenges for local kids.
Here's the thing: your library card is one of the most underrated assets in this city. From free Wi-Fi and printing to genealogy databases and after-school programming, the Sault Ste. Marie Public Library delivers real value without charging a dime. Stop by the Northern Avenue Branch or the Centennial Library this week and see what you've been missing.