Life hacks: simple tricks for making your life a little easier. Some might seem obvious. Some, you won’t believe you’ve lived all this time not knowing. Each Wednesday from 12-2 p.m. throughout the month of October, Downtown Main Library staff members Lea Shull from the Popular Library, Civic Engagement Coordinator David Siders, and other staff are in the Atrium sharing hacks, tips, and surprising secrets for life, the household, technology, the workplace, and of course, the Library! We’re giving you a sneak peek with a few of our favorite hacks.
October 16 – Technology Hacks
Learn hidden texting features, Tech 101 tips, boost your Wi-Fi, and more.
October 23 – Everyday Life & Workplace Hacks
Socialize better with people and make your work life most productive.
October 30 – Library Card Hacks
Learn more about managing your Library card account and get the most from your Library.
Use a lemon to clean your microwave
Cut a lemon in half and squeeze the juice into a microwave-safe bowl filled with ½ cup of water. Microwave for three minutes. Let the bowl sit in the microwave for five minutes so the steam can loosen up a food mess. Remove the bowl and turntable and wipe the inside of the microwave clean. Can you say easy-peasy lemon squeezy (or is that too corny)?
Unclog your drain with vinegar and baking soda
Did you ever make a fake “volcano” in elementary school where you used the chemical reaction between baking soda and vinegar to create “lava”. Well, this wasn’t just impractical magic. You can use the same ingredients to unclog drains! Start by pouring a pot of boiling water down the drain. Then pour a cup of baking soda and equal solution of vinegar and water mixed together. Wait 5-10 minutes and then pour another pot of boiling water down the now unclogged drain!
Eat a burrito at your desk without making a mess
Who knew coffee mugs double as the perfect burrito holder? Use the wrapper as your placemat and set the burrito down between bites in your mug. Brilliant!
Headphone selfies
If you have earbuds and an Apple iPhone, you can snap pictures on your phone's camera simply by opening the photo app and pressing the up or down volume button on your headphones. You can also use these buttons to start and stop recording a video.
Customize your Hot Author picks using your Library account
Did you know you can change your Hot Author picks preference without a Library visit or clicking Update Account? Simply click this link , opens a new windowand change your author, format, and/or pickup location.
Each month, we have something different going on in the atrium of the Downtown Main Library. Whether it's social services or fun crafts, there's never a dull moment. Check out our events calendar to find out what's coming up next!
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