IOWA CITY - A lot of people trying to save some pennies have started using the free services of a familiar place: the public library.

Business is booming at public libraries throughout the nation, including the library here in downtown Iowa City.

It's becoming a one-stop shop for many regardless of whether you are searching for a new job or in need of some cheap entertainment.

Elaine Ladd of North Liberty enjoys reading the Wall Street Journal. But recently, she had to cut out the cost of her monthly subscription.

"It was about $30/year," said Ladd.

Ladd now reads the paper at the library. She's found other cost-saving services there, too.

"We frequently rent movies here," said Ladd. "They have a better selection than many movie places around here and also $3.99 a movie. Rent a couple of movies that's eight bucks."

Money saved by using the library's free services adds up.

"I guess hundreds of dollars a year," said Ladd.

Ladd isn't the only person who has learned the library can help save a few bucks.

"It is a nice opportunity to do something that doesn't cost a lot of money," said Missie Forbes.

Forbes appreciates the library's large variety of zero-cost entertaining activities.

"It does offer something for everybody and doesn't cost a lot of money," said Forbes.

Since the economy soured, the number of people visiting the library, checking out materials, and applying for library cards are all up.

Last month alone, more than 3500 additional people visited the library than they did during December 2007.

"It is a historical fact that as the economy worsens public library usage goes up," said Susan Craig, Director of the Iowa City Public Library.

Some people have even come to the library to learn a new trade to save some cash.

"How to do it books you know have to fix the kitchen sink because it leaks you go to the library and get a book that shows you how instead of hiring a plumber," said Craig.

Library workers also tell us a large number of recently unemployed adults use the library's computers to search for a new job.

Many of those people also sign up for the library's free computer classes to learn a new skill that may help them be more qualified for various positions.