I’m not sure if I should be publicly writing about this, but I’ve uncovered a pretty massive government conspiracy, and have secretly been stealing from this government-funded project for several years.
This isn’t like torrenting a music file from the internet…..we’re talking about picking up products and walking right out of this place without paying for them.
It’s a pretty massive government operation:
- This place has the knowledge of a thousand years compiled into one building.
- This place houses all the laws and rules of the United States, and has access to every public record on file.
- This place contains millions of dollars in assets…..and we’re going to rob it blind.
I’ve found out the codename for this government project is “Codename Library.”
I know “Codename Library” is a secret because despite being millions of dollars of goods inside these buildings, not even a small percentage of the U.S. population knows about them!!!
Today I am going to expose the Codename Library conspiracy wide open.
(If I am captured after this exposé of Codename Library, avenge my death by taking lots of resources out of one of the locations).
Read on if you’d like to hear more about how to rob the government blind of valuable information, books, and real estate…….
Locations of these Top-Secret Government Facilities:
Turns out the United States Government has been running “Codename Library” facilities since the 1800’s. Each facility houses millions of dollars in products, and more inventory is added each month.
Turns out there’s 119,487 of these “Codename Libraries” in America alone!!! Look at this chart of all these top-secret libraries:
There’s so many of these secret government facilities, that 96.4% of U.S. population has close-by access to these “Codename Library” facilities.
I can only speculate that the government has setup sooo many of these libraries close to every person in the USA to spy on the citizens. Why else would they store massive amounts of information, books, resources, and computers next to every person!?!?!????
These government pigs are hiding a wealth of knowledge and resources from the population. In fact, each library has massive amounts of resources that people in the normal world have to PAY for:
- Fast Internet.
- Bathrooms.
- Tables. Desks. Workspaces.
- Loitering is totally allowed.
- Tons of Books.
- Tons of Magazines.
- Tons of CD’s.
- Tons of DVD’s.
- Video Games.
- Every Newspapers.
- 3D printers (some locations).
- Archives of all laws/records.
- Comfortable places to work/read/chill.
- Expensive subscriptions.
- Government workers called “Librarians” who will help you research any topic.
So if you live in the United States, you’re super close to one of these secret “Codename Library” facilities. I want YOU to go spy on these operations and rob them blind by utilizing all these free resources they don’t want you to have!!
Secret Hacks: Codename Library
So how can we massively exploit and get the most from these top-secret government facilities??
Well I’ve been taking from “Codename Library” for years…..and I want to help others do the same. So here are my 8 favorite Secret Hacks to rip off “Codename Library” and leech massive value off the government!!!!
Read on my rebellious friend…..
Secret Hack #1: The Monthly Magazine Read
These sleazy government fat-cats have subscriptions to EVERY MAJOR MAGAZINE and get them delivered weekly. There’s very little security in their magazine vault, so if you sneak into a “Codename Library” facility like I do…..you can read all the magazines for free!! SUCKERS!!
Every month or so I go to the magazine section of “Codename Library” and read through 6 – 12 magazines. I personally like the science-y and entrepreneur-y magazines….but they have a wide variety for whatever topic you’re personally into or curious about. I’ll grab a whole stack and start powering through.
The above picture is just half of the magazine section at the “Codename Library” facility I routinely break into.
There’s a lot of speciality magazines there I would never in a million years purchase, but are interesting to peruse through quickly and read a few good articles. Sometimes I might quickly flip through a photography magazine or read a full Reader’s Digest….neither of which I’d ordinarily subscribe to, but sometimes pickup some good information.
I usually end up snapping photos of pages with my phone if there’s something interesting, or taking a bunch of notes. Here’s some example pictures of random pages that caught my eye during my last trip to the library:
I thought this ad was clever, so I snapped a picture of it and put it in my “Swipe File” folder in my phone:
I came across this article about Tony Robbins and it had a quote I thought was interesting:
There was a great article about a guy who produces all the major comedy specials and it had an interesting blurb about a book I wanted to read:
The point of all this is you can pick up a lot of un-expectedly good information by browsing through a bunch of magazines. I think taking notes (or pics in this case) really helps retain that information.
……best of all, the government will never know you’re stealing from their precious “Codename Library” facility ;-)
Secret Hack #2: Your Home Away from Home (and free co-working space)
My favorite way of sticking it to the government is by breaking into my local “Codename Library” and using it as a FREE co-working space!! The security guards there are so incompetent they let me stay there for hours for free!! What idiots!!!!!
The best part is ALL THIS STUFF IS FREE and ANYONE CAN USE. Since “Codename Library” facilities are kept secret by the government, of course there’s barely anyone in there (except those two (most likely) undercover FBI agents)…..
I used to live about 5 miles outside of Downtown Austin, and I would hate just going home and being isolated. So I would break into the downtown “Codename Library” just to chill for a while.
If I went to a coffee shop I’d end up spending $20 or more on food and drinks, would 90% likely have crappy semi-working internet, and have tons of distractions which prevents long periods of solid work.
Going to a coffee shop was often a net-negative in a time and money.
However in the secret library facility it’s generally very quiet (I bring ear plugs for extra silence), the internet always works and is very fast, there’s computers for you to use if you don’t have a great laptop, and if you get bored on your computer you can just go browse the books or magazines!
Those greedy government bureaucrats never want normal citizens like us to know you can just hang out at “Codename Library” for free all day……but now you know, and can take advantage of it yourself without spending a dime!!
Secret Hack #3: Practice Speed Reading
The government doesn’t want you to read fast and gain knowledge…..this is why they keep “Codename Library” a total secret from society.
But learning how to absorb information at a faster pace is like having a super-power…..and the “Codename Library” is this fantastic place you can practice learning speed reading across many different types of mediums (Magazines, Books, Newspapers).
I learned in middle school that it’s pretty easy to speed read, and it took me about a month of practice everyday to train my brain to handle the rapid amount of information intake. It’s also super handy to speed read through “boring” parts of a book.
Here’s a super-brief synopsis of how I learned to speed read from “Codename Library”:
1.) Grab a random book from the “Codename Library” secret archives.
2.) Read the inside and outside jacket of the book for context.
3.) Look at the table of contents about the book first (this helps you pre-understand what you’re about to read).
4.) When some chapter gets “boring” just bump up the speed of your reading by 2x. Your brain will naturally slow back down when something is of interest to you again. On some really lame chapters I’ll spend little as 5 seconds per page.
Just because it’s in a book doesn’t mean it’s good or interesting. Use your own judgement to extract the knowledge you want, and skip the rest.
For example: I was reading a looonngg biography about Benjamin Franklin, and there were several chapters on his uncle and his uncle’s complete background. It went down such a random rabbit-hole that I quickly decided:
1.) I don’t give a shit about Benjamin Franklin’s uncle’s entire life story.
2.) This information wasn’t delivering anything super-useful at the moment.
…..so I started turning the pages fast as I can, giving the page a quick-skim to see if there’s anything interesting.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with skipping parts of a book.
If you’re not interested or it’s boring, then just skip it.
Since we’re simply stealing books and resources from the government at “Codename Library” who cares if we don’t read it??? It’s free for us!!!!
Secret Hack #4: Learning Random New Stuff
The best part about “Codename Library” is the vast amount of different subjects kept under one roof. The government doesn’t want YOU to know about this though, because they want to keep YOU dumb and stupid. But me & you are rebels and will break in to “Codename Library” and steal this knowledge anyways ;-)
So to learn new stuff you’d never otherwise think to learn, I would do this hack:
I would stand in the middle of the archives at “Codename Library”, close my eyes, and randomly point at a direction. I would then walk straight towards where I pointed and pickup that book and force myself to read the entire book (although I would grant full permission to hyper-speed-read any shitty parts of a book).
Here’s an example of random things I learned:
I once picked up a book about ammunition. I thought, “Ugghh this is a waste of time, I don’t care about how bullets are made!”
By the end I was fascinated with how many different types of ammunition there were, and how much money could be made off making weapons that take proprietary ammunition!
If an army buys 10,000 of your guns and buys 500,000,000 rounds of ammo per year, that’s a HUGE business!
It’s not like I ever want to build a weapons company, it’s just something new I learned, and now I understood more about the world around me because of this random tid-bit of knowledge.
Secret Hack #5: Bring a Notepad and Take Notes (aka Steal Information)
A lot of the books at this top-secret government facility aren’t books I’d normally buy or even rent. However I AM interested enough to sit down and read a bit of each book and pull out some of the interesting parts:
For example, I saw a book on Self Hypnosis and decided to give it a quick read and take some notes. I took a few pages of notes (and pictures of the book since I’m using an iPad Pro to take these notes):
That Self Hypnosis book wasn’t a book I’d ever buy, but it did have a FEW interesting tid-bits I wanted to save.
This is the great thing about this secret “Codename Library” project…..all the books are just sitting there for you to browse and take notes on.
Later down the line I re-read these notes, and there’s a broad wealth of knowledge I have of interesting topics, unique perspectives, and information I never otherwise would’ve learned.
Secret Hack #5: Ask a “Secret Librarian” for Free Research
Did you know “Librarian” is actually a professional title?
Did you know “Library Science” is actually a degree in college?
This means that Librarians are literally trained professionals that will search anything for you….FOR FREE.
- They will help you find old ancestry records.
- They will help you find a job.
- They will help you find any material you are searching for.
- They will help you locate records or information from other libraries.
- They will help you find free classes to learn skills.
- They will help you find events, meetups, and services in your city.
- They will help you find free government services you can use.
- They will help you find information from their vast database access to public government records.
- They will help you find details of laws and regulations.
I am convinced this is a government conspiracy coverup because very few people know about these services.
But now that you know them, you can break into a “Codename Library” near you and ask these “Secret Librarians” for help on any subject.
Secret Hack #6: Use The Top Secret Time Travel Mechanism at “Codename Library”
One of the craziest things you can do at these secret government facilities is TIME TRAVEL. That’s right. Here’s how you do it:
You go to the sections of “Codename Library” where they keep very old books, and you read them. This will teleport you back in time!!!
Different facilities have different types of resources. Some keep magazines from the 20’s, some keep books from the 1700’s…..it just depends on the secret government facility you’re at.
By glancing at the books of the past, you can see what life really was like back then! It’s time travel in the form of books and magazines!
For example, there was this whole section of old Harper’s Bazaar fashion magazines dating back to the 1930’s. I simply picked up a random one from 1945 and I got this when I opened to a random page:
It was actually really eye-opening to open this 1945 issue and see that high fashion was being dictated my military fashion! It immediately flooded my head with thoughts of what it would be like to be alive in 1945 when there was a full World War in swing.
I thought of how different it would’ve been that 90% of my friends would probably be in the military or involved in some way during that time. By simply reading and viewing the materials of that era, I “time travelled” to it in my mind.
Even though I took the above photo just for this blog post, I couldn’t help but be struck by how damn cushy my life is compared to if I were a male adult in 1945.
This kind of time travel definitely helps you gain perspective on your present-day life.
Secret Hack #7: Free CD’s, DVD’s, Learning Programs, Software, Games, New Books
One of the craziest perk the greedy government gives it’s Secret Agents is free access to all of “Codename Library” assets. In fact, they can checkout any of the CD’s, DVD’s, Software, Games, Books they want!!
Look at the large amount of free resources they have (I risked my life to obtain these spy pictures):
Most of us “regular shmucks” have to pay good money for these things…..but “Codename Library” is using taxpayer dollars to give them away free!!?!? This is why I think you too should break into a “Codename Library” and take stuff out too.
In the “Codename Library” facility near me there’s 100,000+ square feet of Books and Games and DVD’s and CD’s and Software….and I regularly steal from it.
All I do is pose as a government agent at the front desk, and those fools let me walk outta there with the assets for free!!! Suckers!!!!!!
Secret Hack #8: Free Computers and Resources
One of the resources “Codename Library” keeps hidden from the general public is a large number of computers. The government is so stupid, they don’t even password protect the computers……anyone can access them!!!
I took some spy footage of some of these computer stations, and it appears any Secret Government Agent can just walk up to one of these computer stations and use them!
All of these computers have high-speed internet and access to many paid databases and public information. If you are clever enough to break into a “Codename Library” you can access and use these computers for free.
Illegally Break Into a “Codename Library” Near You:
I’ll probably be arrested by the government for exposing this huge “Codename Library” coverup……and I’ll DEFINITELY be arrest for building this tool that will show you all the secret “Codename Library” facilities near you:
Just click this link and it’ll show you a map of where all the “Codename Library” facilities near you are located:
https://www.google.com/maps/search/library/
Download this post and signup for the list:
Get this whole “Codename Library” post as a PDF & Word Doc for your own files.
Now go find a “Codename Library” and suck all it’s resources dry ;-)
Sincerely,
Neville Medhora – Probably being detained at a secret government facility.
P.S. What are your favorite ways to steal from “Codename Library”??
Any tips/suggestions/resources you’ve discovered or have “stolen” in the past????
I pass by two libraries on my commute everyday and have never been to either. Stopping by after work today thanks to this post.
Good job Secret Spy Agent Erin! Make sure to break into “Codename Library” and steal as much as you can get ;-)
Actually, I’ve gone one further – I’ve worked out how to hack into the Aussie version and steal resources without even leaving home. It’s all because of this secret database called Trove…which allows me to access digitised newspapers and pictures from the past, up to and including maps more than 500 years old while lying in bed.
I kid you not…and I’m willing to share it: http://trove.nla.gov.au/
Good……now this exposé is going world-wide thanks to you Demelza. Great resource!
My Codename Library allows me to check out magazines electronically and download them to the device of my choice. I can do this from anywhere in the world. And there is no return date!
Oh wow…..I didn’t even know this was something “Codename Library” offered. I know there’s paid services where you can digitally download magazines, but for free?? Now that’s a “steal” ;)
This is so simple and obvious I feel stupid for not realizing I can head to the library…
ANYTIME…
FOR FREE…
to learn and swipe enough to 1000x my earning potential.
Yes Nabeel, let’s steal allll the knowledge from these government fat-cats trying to hide it from us!
Ha! You’re in trouble now, big time! My girlfriend is one of those “Librarians” and she’s def going to report you and this article to her superiors. You certainly don’t want to face a bunch of pissed-off librarians!
She *runs* a small academic library at an art school. I’ve visited there and you wouldn’t believe the resources they have just lying around for students to use. For free!! DVDs, coffee-tabs books, touch-screen computers; it’s all out and on available.
Our town has one of these libraries *and* a smaller “branch” facility nearby. That one also has quiet spaces for kids and children’s books and toys; I tell ya, those facilities are pretty sweet!
I’ve been going to libraries for years and while I’m not usually in favor of huge government programs, this is one I can support.
You’re dating one of the government fat-cats trying to hide all this FREE information from the public??? Shame on you DDA!
I’m going to make sure more and more people know about these facilities so they can steal stuff from them ;-)
I have used the library for years. I’m currently in talks with expanding a library in Uganda, Africa where I currently live. Been in expert info industry for 10 years love your work and it would be a smart idea to send me a Tshirt because I will feature it (wear it) in my next video. Should get over 50,000 views like my last video. Keep Rockin’
Best of luck Secret Spy Agent Nathtan with setting up a “Codename Library” in Uganda!
A friend on Facebook said he was going to the new co-working space in town at the library. I thought, “I didn’t hear about a new co-working space in town.” Now I realize that he already knew something about these secret government labs.
I think I should take a trip to one of these Codename Library places. I think I could cross reference my Amazon Wishlist with their secret records of books and see if I can find a way to steal the information I need. I bet, like you said, that I can get away with only getting the best parts of these documents.
Your friend is a wise person to know about these secret government facilities. I bet you can find any book on Amazon at the “Codename Library” also, for free. And if they don’t have it, then can find it for you.
Make sure to take full advantage of ripping off these secret labs!!
I always forget to use the library for ACTUAL BOOK RESEARCH! Thanks for reminding me!
Actually, I’ve been using their free wifi and workspaces for a couple of years… Even had a couple of meetings using their facilities (you can rent private meeting spaces at our local branch).
You can even read the free Chamber Of Commerce monthly magazine and get business directories / charity directories if you’re looking for lists to mail to!
Brilliant stuff! And a great ‘reminder’ post, Neville!
Glad you’ve been sucking these “Codename Library” facilities dry already Tim! I didn’t even know about the private workspaces till you mentioned them. I checked, and my own “Codename Library” has them too!
SEE?? Those government fat-cats are just trying to keep us out-of-the-know.
Great reconnaissance work Secret Spy Tim :-)
Excellent article. Please allow me to contribute with…
Secret Hack #X:
Now you can even access books from your smartphone, tablet, and eReader… And you don’t even have to worry about returning them on time, they magically auto-destruct from your device after a few days. Amazing right? Spy Style.
Here is one of the Top Secret Apps you can use https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.overdrive.mobile.android.mediaconsole
Download it, install it, log in with your super secret clearance library card number and password and that’s it, browse, select, read.
Enjoy!!
Great spy-work Alex! Hopefully many people see this and suck this secret government organization dry through it ;)
I’ve been using (stealing) from “Codename Libraries” for years and years. Their free selection of movies and music is really where it’s at for me. Now that I’m a family man, recreational use of cinema and sound has fallen by the wayside. But that’s not to say that I don’t regularly rip “Codename Libraries” off still. Pro Tip: use “Codename Libraries'” automated system online, or their web app to reserve books and movies for the little ones. My wife looks up well-rated books on Amazon, then reserves them at the “Codename Library” where we pick them up and read them later for FREE. Pro Tip #2: reserve your books about seasonal stuff ahead of time. We like getting books that relate to things going on in the season, so the littles get their learn on. Just make sure to do it ahead of time. For example, you’re not gonna get many Halloween books a couple days before Halloween, you need to reserve them a few weeks or a month before, and beat the demand. Lonely adults can usually rent new releases for only 50 cents too. That’s like $1 cheaper than the CrimsonBox. Yeah!
Hey Shay, I love all these secret government steal hacks!
I agree for children’s material “Codename Library” is the best, since the kids will soon outgrow all those things very quickly. I’m sure you save a lot of money this way.
The Amazon trick is great. I might start doing this with books I know I’m only going to read once.
Great work Secret Spy Shay!
Neville,
4 Letters: SRDS
Yup….Gary Halbert would fondly talk about the SRDS book for direct marketing lists allllll the time. It’s good stuff and great for research!
Great article. Funny. Wish they had ANY libraries over here in Thailand.
Yeesh…..too bad your government doesn’t have these secret facilities (I had no idea).
Dave, we did have a library in the amper muang of MahaSarakham. Not many books in English, but at least some. Hopefully, you can uncover a hither-to-you-unknown library in your area.
After 13 yrs there, one of the very best things about returning to the US was access to local Codename Libraries!
Blessings!
Secret Hack #9: Share the information you steal from these facilities with other people will make you feel awesomely great!
Thanks Neville
That’s right Ricardo! Now more people know about these secret government facilities thanks to these kinds of posts :)
I love the library. It’s one of the few things that I don’t begrudge my tax money paying for. One of the coolest things is the interlibrary loan program. Years ago, before it was republished, it had my library ship in a copy of Breakthrough Advertising so that I could read it without paying out of the nose by buying it on eBay.
My family and I are on a first name basis with our local librarians.
Great article, man.
Great job sucking the “Codename Library” of resources John! It’s pretty awesome :)
Your reflections about what it must’ve been like to be an adult male in 1945 are a bit amusing. Reading an old magazine from that era is interesting and it does give you a bit of perspective, although you could’ve learned much more by actually talking to someone alive in those times. But talking to old people about their lives and times simply doesn’t happen very much. Old people’s existence and their memories are often treated as an boring inconvenience, rather than a resource, for younger people. Although I was not an adult in 1945, I was alive and I assure you that the world was a far different place than it is today. Nice article, great hook, good information for those who’ve forgotten/never really knew about libraries.
Very true Alive In 45……..I’m sure people can do that also. Great advice.
I’m not sure I can share this info, but… For people who have kids or young nephews, the Codename Libraries have secret plans for them too. Some of these places have, from time to time, a session where they bring a special agent to read books to kids. Sometimes they even assign an agent called an “author” to do these top secret assignments!
Special kids might be able to spend time with their parents, and read some books together.
But beware – this is a very sensitive matter, and should be handled with care.
:)
Thanks for exposing this government secret Yair! I will let parents know about this service they can “steal” from the “Codename Library” government conspiracy!
It’s possible to borrow an e-book reader from my library so I do that when I go on holidays. It’s much better than lugging paper books around!
Very nice recommendation Arnaud, I also heard from other spies in this comment thread you can digitally rent books from your own device. I’m actually looking into that and using it for myself.
Most university libraries will let you borrow books and use their databases for free as well when you have a local library card.
UT-Austin is a prime example, it does take about 30 minutes worth of walking around campus with a bunch of different forms to get a UT library card… but you get one. I used to spend a lot of time in the engineering library at UT even though I was never a student there. FREE :)
My favorite book that the UT library had but the Austin didn’t have is “How to Spend 24 hours in a day” written 100 years ago in London and you would think is was written yesterday. Simple ways of thinking about spending your time like money.
Great reconnaissance work Secret Agent Rye! I love the UT libraries (I went there for college) and long after would visit the stacks in the PCL for a wealth of new and old books. They literally had EVERYTHING I could ever imagine there, including oolllddd books from hundreds of years ago.
And if the particular 500p3r-53kr17 facility you break in doesn’t have exactly the key piece of evidence you’re looking for… you can easily fool them into getting it for you from another one! Check out (so to speak) this One Weird Trick called Inter-Library Loan — details are carefully hidden at the “dark-web” site https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interlibrary_loan .
Great hack for stealing information from the government Dave! And great work on exposing that “dark web” site, it must’ve taken many hours of hacking to find ;-)
Sometimes codename libraries in the same area like to share their database so that you can request books and other media from different libraries. I think this is used to entice people to come in so they can gather your data and monitor your wherabouts
I agree…..those government pigs will STOP AT NOTHING to gather your information. So sneaky….
Great job Neville! BUT!!!! – you’ve only uncovered the tip of the iceberg here! This conspiracy goes much further and is much more complicated than that!
There are millions – I repeat – MILLIONS of normal people like you and me who create their own information resources and sort through that mountain of information! They are undercover spies, usually codenamed “students”, and they use software like zotero (https://www.zotero.org/) to do that sorting. On top of that, these “students” think they are robbing the government of information, but in reality THEY are exploited as information diggers! They accumulate all that information into dossiers and secret reports named “dissertation” or “thesis” – for free! They don’t get paid to work for any secret agency, they do it for the promise of a “good job”. Bahahaha! (<<imagine evil laugh here). It's a bit like a spy/counterspy/double agent kind of thing. I'm still trying to figure out the exact role of the so-called "librarians" in this game!
If anyone has intel on that, please leave a note in section "astrophysics", at the end of shelf "Sta-Sto". Thank you!
Great job Secret Spy Ozzy for further unraveling this massive government conspiracy!
Taking photos for future reference is a huge time saver, especially if you can splurge for the optical character recognition features of a program like Evernote. It’s not 100% accurate, but good enough to make it easy to find quotes/articles later without having to tag them at all. Thanks for the entertaining blog posts!
Thanks for the secret tip Garen! Whenever I post or write something in OneNote it is automatically OCR’d in the background which makes it very easy to search for later.
A couple of months ago I started to work as a freelance. I was thinking paying a coworking space, fuck that.
I love the library, it is 5 min from my house, it has a huge window, it has a standing desk, it is free, it is full of weird people that go there to borrow the computers. Libraries are the most underrated resource nowadays.
Congrats to you Neville for unlock the potential of the libraries!
Good thinking Daniel, it makes way more sense to break into a secret “Codename Library” facility than pay for expensive and distracting coffee shops!
Oh buddy, you’re so damn lucky to live in America.
In my country, we do have libraries but there isn’t fast internet (hell, most libraries don’t EVEN have internet at all), we don’t have FAMOUS English books (English books are VERY RARE…VERY RARE), so far I never got the chance to know a library offering CD’s, DVD’s or video games…ALSO one of the libraries I was subscribed to last year prohibited people to look for books, you had to call the librarian like you said and he’ll struggle to search for your book -_-
So yeah, I hate those type of libraries :(
Yeesh……that doesn’t sound fun.
Sorry to hear your area doesn’t have these cool secret government facilities :-/
Neville…thank you for outlining your speed reading method. It actually works and saves effort (unlike “speed reading” courses that cost hundreds of dollars and require you to go cross-eyed).
In a small town library like mine, just about everything is out of date. But that’s good. Glancing through books written way before the internet was invented, we discover that basic principles are still the same as they have always been. And when news stories are no longer “news”, then the “story” element comes to life.
In my student days, the library was a guaranteed place to find a quiet corner to catch up on sleep in between lectures. Alas, those days are gone. Often, the library is a riot of chaos, with little kids running round doing “educational activities”. We used to have playgrounds for that. Ahhh…but a new generation of spies are being inducted!
Very welcome Steve….speed reading is actually quite easy if you consistently do it everyday for a while (kinda like working out consistently is the only way to get larger muscles).
I don’t worry about some things being out of date. There’s still a lot of great information at these secret government facilities!
I think some of the more local libraries have lots of children, but I’ve never seen them being too rowdy or disturbing others.
Also if I “break in” to my download public library, there’s actually very few children.
Our city just built one “secret” place for 9M$. State of the art secret location!
3 inside secrets from my experience as a secret agent…
1. If they don’t have the resource I’m looking for… I ask them and they will buy it for me …WITH THEIR OWN MONEY… (ok it’s kind of mine but you get the idea…) They have a budget for special secret requests…
2. For geek agents like me and his kids agents, they have a whole room full of toys and board games that you can “steal & bring home” for free…
3. They actually have special rooms where you have free trainings with agent specialists about many different subjects (gardening, photography, history, etc).
Bonus tip…
4. This one must be very secret because nobody seems to know… You can actually rent these classrooms for free to teach your passion… I mean conference rooms with dozens of student spies places equipped with a computer for each and connected to the inter webs and giant screen TVs for the presentations…
http://bit.ly/2eJO2q6
Great and fun post as usual Neveville!
Now that is one fancy “Codename Library” facility…..I can’t believe the government is trying to keep it all to themselves!!
Great tips Yves, possibly shirt-worthy spy work!
When I can’t find a particular book I’m searching for in the codename library then I talk to one of the librarians and they give me a top secret sheet to fill out so they can order the book from their top secret supplier and put it on their shelves. They even grab my codename so that when the book comes in they send me a coded message that lets me know I can go get the book!
My codename library also has its own app. I can browse their entire catalog from anywhere at anytime and put items on hold! This is useful when doing research at home and discovering book titles that perk my interest. I just log into the app, find the title, put it on hold…and it appears in a secret pickup spot for me within a couple of days!!
Great job stealing from those librarians and getting them to reserve materials for you Secret Agent Mana! That’s neat you’ve been able to hack your way into your “Codename Library” facilities secret app ;)
For me I spent plenty of money getting a nice degree, and little do you know but there are private Codename Libraries for most universities.
You may be spending money for your degree but just like the Codename Libraries discussed here these private ones have a large database of scholarly articles and research along with all the information to take.
Another aspect I have found is that some of this information is actually online and accessible at all times, reducing the risk to have to sneak into the physical building when you can sneak in while in the comfort of your own home and PJs.
Very true Anthony, nearby my place The University of Texas has over 30+ “Codename Library” facilities that hardly anyone knows about!
I love libraries. A few uses for them that haven’t been mentioned. Some aren’t available at every library.
1) Audiobooks. Want to “read” more but don’t have time? Go to the library and check out audiobooks. I get them in CD form and downloadable.
2) Learn a new language. Many ways to do this. Books, cds and my favorite Transparent Language. Transparent Language is like Rosetta Stone and Berlitz. Use the database with the apps to have access to information anywhere.
3. Learn to program. Books obviously but also online classes. Lynda.com is available from some libraries. If you’re looking at an online course, check your library to see if there is a free version.
4. Download music for free. Check if your library has Freegal.
5. Premium business databases for lead generation. Libraries offer quite a few databases for free that businesses pay hundreds of thousands of dollars. Want to find companies in your state with over $1 million in sales and twenty employees. Use Dun & Bradstreet Million Dollar Database. Looking for key execs contact info? Use Hoovers premium access.
6. Expert and author talks. Usually there are monthly programs with experts doing a presentation on their experience or book. Go to one even if it’s an area you haven’t thought before. Better yet, come up with your own library talk and pitch your local librarian. It’s like your own local Ted talk. I bet Neville could pack a library in Austin doing this.
7. Meet others. In addition to possibly meeting someone at the talks, you can also join the library book clubs. Usually they stick to popular or local books. Bigger libraries will have multiple book clubs for different categories.
One last tip for those who haven’t used there library, use interlibrary loan. Don’t limit yourself to what is physically in your library offers. Almost all are in a system where you can get materials from others.
Great (and possibly shirt-worthy) list of secret “Codename Library” hacks Charles! #5 is especially helpful for business owners who want access to otherwise very costly leads!
Thank you Neville! With #5, I’ve thought of using this to offer list lead services to businesses.
I think #6 would be an interesting one for you to do. It would be a good way for you to give back to the library for all it’s given you. Maybe even donate whatever you make back to the Friends of the Library?
I know I shouldn’t do this
but I breached the fbi mainframe masterunit thursday morning and they’re onto you,
talking about how people could start being focus on what they do, even singletasking
and how it could lead to people actually being interested,
organizing themselves in these top secret facilities
summing up entire books for easier integration
decreasing good consumption and ultimately destroying the economy
and create an independant free space of experimentation
for your safety, remove your post asap
Sent from my iphone 8
How dare you expose my information to the government! Now they’ll know I’ve been robbing “Codename Library” blind all these years!!
Sent from my iPhone 12
I used the library as my own co-working space for the first time just last week and can testify that productivity was way better!
Thanks for all these other hacks. You really brought the simple topic to life with your government project analogies. Great work :)
Glad you too are on the bandwagon for stealing office space from “Codename Library” also Secret Agent David ;-)
My Codename Library lets secret agents check out museum passes, so you can go rip off the government even more. Four passes, so the whole family can do field work. (Although mine is a tiny outpost compared with yours.)
Really? I had no idea this conspiracy extended over to museum passes also. Great reconnaissance work Secret Agent Teresa!
When I still was working my corporate job, I showed up at a meeting with Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook checked out from my local library. The Director of West Coast sales made fun of me. She was like just “buy the book.”
But here’s the thing, I wasn’t trying to save money. I just have a habit of pick up new books there and getting the information. It’s a super efficient way to learn.
SECRET HACK #9: Online Collections
My library is so BOSS, they subscribe to all these online media services like Hoopla and Overdrive. I have listened to over 20 business and marketing books this year for free. E-Myth, Go-Giver, 4-Hour Workweek, Napoleon Hill, Michael Port, Gary Vaynerchuk, Zig Ziglar, and more.
Great job Secret Agent Matt…..don’t spend your own money when those government fat-cats at “Codename Library” will pick up the tab for you!!
I definitely want to checkout more audiobooks after hearing this…..they are normally something I wouldn’t pay for, but would gladly “steal” them from “Codename Library” for free!!
I love the idea of exposing the library as a “hack.” If fits pretty well with the whole political theme, but i thought it got a little over used because of the length of the article.
Please send this to schools somehow. They need this level of writing for encouraging kids to get in the library.
Are you assuming this was some kind of “ironic theme” I was using Mike? I bet you’re actually an undercover agent of “Codename Library”…….
I like visiting the bulletin boards where people post ads/events to see what catches my eye, how it’s written, the layout, the words etc and analyze it for copywriting.
Interesting use of “Codename Library” Secret Agent Candace….I too enjoy seeing all the cool events they post on the wall there!
The Codename Library that I frequent has terrible security. They have a bunch of nice laptops, with all of the software one would ever need already installed, just lying around. You can pick one of the laptops up and walk right out of the front door with it; you don’t even need to hide the laptop in a backpack. I didn’t even need to buy a laptop to do all of my college work thanks to the Codename Library facility.
Also, if there’s ever a book that I want that my Codename Library doesn’t have, those government agents will do all the work in finding the book and getting it in stock. I don’t have to do anything besides telling them I want them book. I can even download it straight to my kindle, so I don’t even need to go into the facility. Same goes for dvd’s as well. Their vast collections of dvd’s have made me a big hit on long car rides and team bus trips.
Good thing your “Codename Library” security guards are so incompetent they let you enter this facility with millions of dollars of equipment for free!
Great reconnaissance work on these secret facilities Agent Andrew!
How do you remember of everything you read? I read a lot but I feel like I remember nothing…
Keep a journal with succinctly-written ideas you find valuable, as well as the source
Hey Alex, I take lots and lots and lots of notes. I fill up notebooks and recently have been taking lots of notes on my iPad Pro.
No!! You are giving away THE SECRET, Neville!
I go to Amazon and create a wish list of books.
I then use my library’s search engine and request all of those books. I have about a 90% success rate finding them.
Also, my library is connected to my State’s library system so I can request books from 100miles away, and University libraries.
My library also has subscriptions to ReferenceUSA (for business intel), and Lynda.com (learn anything!).
TRUTH: If you pay property taxes, you are already paying for your library usage. So use it!
Forgot to add: most libraries only stay open until 8pm. Which is a bit short of most coffee shops for late-night work. So that sucks. However, this article prompted me to search my area for a library that stays open later. Found one – stays open until 9pm, and only 15 miles away! Thanks Neville!
This is a great way to get all your books you’d normally buy on Amazon, but for FREE Roger! Thanks for the tip Secret Agent :-)
Coffee shop is way too crowded. I’d rather go to the free secret government co working space.
Very true Secret Agent Steve. The “Codename Library” is a great place to get work done on the government’s dime ;-)
My favourite hack would be to use my local library here in Atlanta as a free co-working space. I realize that the one day I spent working at the library last year was one of my most productive days and I hate working at home because I inevitably take way too may naps and eat too much food…
Thanks for giving libraries the social proof I needed to start going back!
Great job stealing work space from the “Codename Library” in Atlanta Saneel! Keep it up ;-)
Free conference rooms are often available for advance reservations, or on a walk-in basis.
After reading through the comments I just learned even my own nearby “Codename Library” facility provides this service, and I never knew about it! Thanks for exposing the secret Mark.
I miss my last job for many reasons, but one of the best parts of my weeks there were spending one day with my little team at a local library with a built-in coffee shop. Free DVDs and books to borrow, coffee and pastries, free meeting space and a great central location. I miss that.
Oh wow…..your local “Codename Library” even has a built-in coffee shop? These government fat-cats loovvee to build these secret facilities all for themselves huh?
Thanks for exposing their secret Tony.
Be VERY quiet when sneaking into your local government facility!
(You never know who’s listening)
In case I don’t make it out alive, I’ve placed several business cards with my contact information, hidden in a variety of dead-drop books related to my business topic, disguised as ‘bookmarks’.
Hopefully someone finds them before the Secret Librarians can cover up any trace I was there!
Good spy work Josh, I am sure someone will sneak out of “Codename Library” in order to tell your story after your capture!
I like being able to download digital magazines thanks to my Codename Library. They have a service that interfaces with Zinio that allows me to “subscribe” to digital versions of my favorite magazines and read them at my leisure.
They also have a way to download audiobooks, TV, movies, and more through a partnership with Hoopla digital. I’m a big fan of free.
I’m still amazed you can get this (steal this) for free from “Codename Library”….I’m going to do this myself!
Awesome Article . Nev.
Love your very humorous way of showing some truths.
1. A new top-secret feature they introduced recently is, you don’t have to visit the facility to use it. if you have a government id, You can borrow digital ebooks, Audio books and Videos right from your smarty-pants iPhone, from a website called overdrive.com. You just enter your government id and download books, audios and Videos to your hearts content into your IPhone and listen to it while you are driving or jogging instead of listening to those commercials and useless BS information on the Radio.
These dudes have an app too. if you are following a spy and need to listen to some information faster, the app has a feature to listen at double the speed!.
This secret digitial feature was introduced more than 5 years ago, but only very few top-secret curious-secret agents knew about this feature.
There is vehement opposition from several pro-government organizations, that it wrong to open up this information. but the secret agents are on the field and they need to access this info from anywhere in the world.
2. I never really knew Librarians help us do that much research. My respect for them has grown substantially and realized what a dumb-ass agent I was not to have taken help from them in the past.
Great reconnaissance work Vijay! I am going to look into the digital e-renting as I always want that stuff, but don’t want to pay for it.
Possibly shirt-worthy secret agent spy work here Agent Vijay!
A few years ago, I purchased “Kick Ass Copywriting” by John Carlton. I learned that he became a marketer by going to the library and reading every book in the marketing section.
Since then, I’ve frequented the Govt facilities around the country (some around the world). I’ve leveraged these facilities for research, building swipe files, and crafting copy.
I was hoping to keep the secret longer, but Neville has spilled the beans… (if he disappears in the near future, I’ll know exactly where he is)
Great Post!
Yup, I actually heard him tell that story several times.
I think I’ve completely devoured the “copywriting” section of my local “Codename Library” already.
Sorry to spill this secret Government Agent Omari, but the American public has a right know!!
I love the library! I used to go there often to get work done and keep myself from getting distracted with housework (the downside to working from home – so many chores trying to convince you that it’s possible to multi-task). Somehow I got out of the habit of going so thanks for reminding me to use this great resource! :)
Yes Jessica, make sure to go to your local “Codename Library” and rob it blind again!!
Being born in a place with few Codename Library outpost at the time, my mother (a senior spy) got material for our training while being dormant agents. With the time, I learned to decode material from other countries so I could easily being assigned to missions abroad. When I was ready and got activated, I was relocated to a new and crowded government facility with access to information and gadgets from different government agencies around the world.
Apart what you’ve already mentioned, here’s what I would suggest:
– Use the government resources to learn to decode. That way you could be assigned to missions in different countries. Now I’m fluent in three different codes and can decipher easily two more.
– Just as you learn in the academy, when working on the field, keep as many id’s and passports as possible. Many Codename Libraries, let you keep your subscription even if you relocate. That way you can receive your information and your gadgets from distant places. I have Id from my little local outpost, from my near city regional facility and one from the headquarters.
– When you’re on very remote location, your agent de liaison (aka librarian) could be the only person you contact in months while undercover. You can develop a special relationship with that person so that you’re treated like a double-zero agent. In that cases, when your contact knows for sure you take special care of the equipment, you’re just exempt from paying late-fees. Last time I got material for a mission and went undercover, I kept the material for more than a year. She just kept updating the database knowing I was on radio silence. When I returned alive and with the material in so good shape she was happy to see me and proud to show me the most recent and improved material from the government. Again, I didn’t had to pay for it.
Wow, great detective and spy work Alfonso, possibly shirt-worthy! These are great tips ;-)
Thanks to one of your commenters, I now have access to Lynda.com through my library. I had no idea! This article was great. Thank you very much, Neville. Don’t forget that you can also download e-books as well as the latest magazines electronically too.
Those government fat-cats were hiding free access to Lynda.com from us? I didn’t even know about this one!
Neville, I’m shocked you are letting this information out! How am I going to find a seat next time I visit my local library?!?!?! You are totally right about using the library over coffee shops. I’ve been working from the library for a few years now. It’s the secret work space that no one thinks of :)
I know I know…….this secret is going to spread like wildfire and then the government will catch on that their precious “Codename Library” facilities are being robbed by us daily!
If I know what resources I need but am short on time, I request them all online. These amazing librarians hunt them all down (even from neighboring libraries!) and I get an email when they are ready. I swing by, steal them er check them out, and off I go! Brilliant!!
Great job “ripping off” these greedy librarians Therese! It’s amazing how helpful they are (too bad they don’t know we’re just spies trying to bleed the government dry) :-P
Well, I scrolled through to the end. Yes, I sped read some of it and looked at the pictures. Since I was a child I’ve visited the “Codename Library”. Like to time travel and explore the world through fiction and non-fiction descripts and picts! Love to research–taking great pleasure in zapping the resources of the secret archives of the “Codename Library” from past, present, and future time-zones. It’s best to eat the meat and spit out the junk information bones–leading you to re-arrange and compile new direction cones. Can we all join forces in taking in exploiting these sources?
Great job exploiting these secret “Codename Library” facilities Secret Spy Deb! I totally agree that speed-reading through a book is a great way to pickup the “meat” and spit out the “bones.” Sometimes books just have parts that SUCK…..so why take your precious time to read through those parts??
Speed reading is a lifesaver.
I did this all the time, except I always went to the non-secret, commercialized pleb locations (or, distractions rather) called Chapters. Usually with a Starbucks attached. But I’d grab a bunch of books I found interesting, sit down with a coffee and speed read through them all before putting them back (never buying any). I’m also bad for spending hours just absorbing info from the Internet, following links down intricate rabbit holes and learning all sorts of random things.
I see you were essentially using private sector “Codename Library” facilities…..good job in utilizing them Secret Spy Rachael!
Neville, I love your useful articles about life hacks such as these, so I thank you for that. These are the reasons as to why I’m subscribed to your mailing list and I never feel like you’re trying to sell me something. So thanks again and I like your writing style (and drawings!)!
Thanks Eman, I’m glad you like them. Keep reading, and I will continue to try and push out great articles (and of course…..silly drawings) :-)
Librarians are Jedi Knights of information.
Each librarian completes an information based course that lasts longer than S.E.A.L training and eclipses the entry standards for MENSA.
Generally, a librarian must also face ghouls and specters (Ghostbusters is based on librarian training) – and I heard (this could be a rumor,) that Apple base software updates on a librarian’s brain.
Oh, and a library is kinda cool if it is raining!
I ageee! Apparently the law library at UT where I went to college had several law librarians who were specially trained to look up weird and obscure laws. The outcome of this research could often effect lives and lots of money.
That’s the first time I realized you can utilize librarians like this!
Neville
Please add this hack to your list.
If you visit “Codename Library” between January 15 and April 15, you will find Volunteers from “The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)” program offering free tax help to people who generally make $54,000 or less, persons with disabilities and limited English speaking taxpayers who need assistance in preparing their own tax returns.
I used to volunteer for the VITA program and was introduced to the “Codename Library” near me.
Who knew you could get your tax returns filed for free by qualified tax professionals!!!
I enjoyed reading your article
Thanks
Wow really? Had no idea….great job Secret Agent Spy Niloufer! Possibly a shirt-worthy comment :)
This is one of my favorite scenes from Goodwill Hunting. https://youtu.be/6ZI1vgJwUP0. The character played by Matt Damon mocks the Harvard bully by saying that he dropped a $150,000 on tuition that he could have gotten for $1.50 in late charges at the public library.
I remember that scene well :)
Really if someone is disciplined enough, they can read about pretty much every single subject for free and watch videos about it for free.
If there’s something that’s paid, then “Codename Library” will likely just buy it for you too!
I love that Elon Musk always talks about how he learned most of his rocketry knowledge from simple reading books about rocketry. Pretty inspiring!
Hey Neville, great post!
I didn’t read all the comments so sorry if someone already mentioned this, but I just found out a few weeks ago through my sister-in-law who has a librarian friend that there is a free app called “OverDrive” that you can sign into with your library card number (apparently for most public library systems in the US, I’m not sure about internationally) and you can check out ebooks and audiobooks (from your local library system) FREE right from your phone or ipad!
I’ve been using it for audiobooks since she told me about it (the app also lets you listen at 2X speed which I love) and I just checked out my first ebook on it this weekend.
For ebooks, it actually links up with Amazon and sends the ebooks you check out right to your Kindle device (or in my case the Kindle app on my iPhone)!
The only weird thing (at least it seems weird to me) is that even though the files are digital, there is still a “due date” when you check them out just like if you went to the library and checked out the hard copy.
The selection also seems to be limited to what your actual library has so sometimes (even though it’s the digital version) you have to get on a waiting list and wait for someone else to “return” the book you want before you can check it out yourself.
Apparently, the library must have to actually buy a copy of every book (even ebooks and audiobooks) that people can check out, and only one person can check out each copy at a time. The app does allow you to reserve a book it’s already checked out and automatically check it out once it’s returned.
You can also REQUEST that the library buys a copy of an ebook or audiobook that you recommend if they don’t already have it. Come to think of it, even though I already own it, I think I’ll see if they’ll buy “This book will teach you how to write better”.
Hopefully, this comment will be helpful to some people.
As someone who was always buying Kindle books and Audiable audiobooks I was SHOCKED when I found out I could just check them out free through an App (that my library pays for) without even having to step foot in that big old scary building.
Great sleuthing-work Secret Agent Ryan! A couple of people have mentioned Overdrive here and it looks amazing!
I never knew about it till it was “exposed” right here in the comments!!
Commenting for t-shirt.
Also excellent post. Learned quite a bit from this one, both in the direct and indirect sense.
Glad you learned something Filip!
Neville, this is genius and such a fun read! I tell my 6th grade students all the time that good readers pre-read things to get their mind ready to remember. I am totally going to share your real world application in class today. I agree that the library is such an underused agency. Thanks for the awesome post!
Great job Heather prepping 6th grades to steal all they can from “Codename Library”!
I think what could click well is showing how successful people (many of which these 6th graders might admire) have one thing in common: Reading a lot.
That by knowing more things in life can make you more powerful.
This might get them to break into “Codename Library” even more :)
I spent some 6 months writing content for Pavlok about aversion therapy, which is a topic I knew NOTHING about. I got a TON of research papers from the periodicals department in the library at my local university. These research papers cost LOTS of money if you were to purchase them online. And they’re all cataloged according to topic.
If your university allows you to access their catalog via the internet, you can see specifically which research papers will interest you. Or you can just go in there and pick research papers or journals from the subject matter that interests you, for example, Consumer Psychology, Sociology, Nuclear Physics etc.
Power tip #1: Each research paper contains a bibliography that will refer you to other research papers of interest about that specific topic.
Power tip #2: You can quote these research papers in your article to boost credibility and value (just like Derek Halpern does in his blog posts). Remember to quote properly.
Power tip #2.1 If you’re writing your article in Google Docs, you can use EasyBib Bibliography creator to automatically insert the proper attribution for research papers.
Hope this helps!!!
Cedric
Thanks Cedric, and say whattup to Maneesh for me!
“Codename Library” is definitely THE place to go when you wanna learn a new topic!
One of the things I come to enjoy from these secret govt agents, is the use of Overdrive, which allows me to check out books from the convenience of my own home. And I like the ability to download the latest magazines through Zinio.
Hmmmm….I’ve never heard of Secret Project “Overdrive” but I will now check it out Secret Agent Wanda :-)
My Codename Library offers free passes to the zoo, all State parks, and some museums. You can check out a pass for up to 4 people for a week at a time. Pretty cool. Entrance to any of these might cost $10-12 per person plus parking. F.R.E.E. thanks to Codename Library.
Whoa…thanks for the info Secret Agent had no idea! This could possibly be some shirt-worthy information :-)
SECRET HACK #X: I take my junior secret agents (who are under 10 years old) to Codename Library, collect what *I* want to read, and then take them to the “kids” area where I can conveniently ignore them for the rest of the time we are there. Here they play cool educational games on the computer, color, read & pick out books, do activities that are going on, talk to other kids and play with the random tactile toys that have been conveniently located in this area. I know what you’re thinking – don’t they just try to leave? No! There is plenty for them to do (plus I tell them if they leave the kids area without my knowledge, they will never eat gummies again). And when the inside gets boring, we go outside where they have – can you believe this? – a PLAYGROUND! And then I ignore them and read more. And everyone comes home with more stuff to read. It’s a win-win.
[Note: take snacks to maximize ignoring time]
Isn’t it crazy how “Codename Library” has all these secret kids facilities also? I think it’s really great for kids because they can go through unlimited secret government kids books (I mean….”government resources”) and the parents don’t even have to pay for them!
Great job Secret Agency Cicely!
Let’s just say I work at one of these ultra secret facilities and lets just say it happens to be in the middle of a huge city, it could be Baltimore. Allegedly despite it seeming to be private, actually the health science library at the University of Maryland Baltimore is open to the public, THE PUBLIC! They have so many medical journals available for reading through and learning they have to staff the place with experts in various health disciplines just to answer all research questions related to this stuff. By simply walking in with an ID you enter the place, can access a workstation and without even hacking use commercially available medical journal databases. These are the good ones too that experts use to make decisions to save lives. Who would be crazy enough to just leave this stuff sitting wide open! It must be a trap to educate and communicate, those fools! Unfortunately or fortunately resources are being cut back to support these “super-secret places” and as a result the amount of knowledge available for public access is becoming limited. Probably for the best to keep it locked away in the hands of a select few who can afford it and know what to do best with it. Dont get me started on the 3-D printers available, Learning on Demand resources, historical archive of medical literature and equipment, learning labs, and high-performance genomics computing they are carelessly leaving available for use.
Wow, so glad people like you were spying on “Codename Library” from the inside!
It’s crazy how many resources are offered, and I hope more people start ROBBING IT BLIND!!
GOOD ONE! I download free ebooks, magazines and audio books from my library! ALL FREE!
You too!?? Greg job breaking into your local “Codename Library” Wendy!
Hey there Neville..
It was great reading through your posts. The Term Library was a cliche until i found that from you about how interesting it could be to actually steal of its knowledge in one go. Thanks for spreading the quest for knowledge.. I’m heading for the Library Quest…!
Yes! Go break in and steal looooottssss of knowledge!
Hi Neville!
God bless you. I’ve just started my 1st blog with your help from your “Newbie advise for copywriting” video. I took your advise to print (then read) the Boron Letters and read Joseph Sugerman’s Copywriting Handbook. After reading the information you recommended, I felt ready to start my blog. I am praying to be a blessing to others as you have been to me and many others (as I see from your above funny/informative blog).
Thank you for your great heart of generosity in sharing your wisdom. I thank God for you and am asking Him (Jesus of Nazareth) to reveal His great, agape love to you so you can understand your complete value and the full purpose He has for your life. Your life sounds great and you seem like an awesome guy. But I pray that as you search deeply, you realize that if you don’t know the Giver of life, that real joy/peace will always bypass you. Praying for abundant life now, for you. : -)
Glad to hear you’ve started your own blogging journey Ann, best of luck with it!
These Secret Government Agencies also have inter-loans. So if your Local Secret Agency doesn’t have they get it from another Secret Agency.
Yup…..those government fat-cats definitely try to keep the goods between themselves and not share it with the public, good thing we’re breaking in and stealing all those goods ;-)
Probably the first post ever I didn’t skim-read. Reading something with a feeling of “this is important” and still having fun is a rare pleasure.
Thanks Chris! I actually write this post originally in a boring “go to a library!’ preachy kind of tone. THen the day before I completely re-did the entire thing with this funny and entertaining angle. I think it worked much better THIS away :-)
SO perfect this way!!! See my comment below ;)!!!!!
Glad you liked it Adam….just trying to expose this big government cover-up ;)
I could get a sewing machine, for free, from my (cough) library (cough). Temporarily but I still think that is pretty cool.
A sewing machine? REALLY? Wow….these government fat-cats are definitely hoarding all sorts of resources and not telling anyone about it!
SO AWESOME!!! I’m taking my 5th and 6th Grade on a Field Trip tomorrow to our local “CODENAME LIBRARY”. it was going to be a regular trip to learn about libraries and we are going with our own School Librarian, but i am totally going to turn the trip into this secret spy infiltration operation with our librarian as an enemy spy who defected to our side and has a scope of the place!
Such an Awesome way to spin this!!! And some awesome hacks for me to use at the …”Codename Library”!!!
On a side note, i do believe that libraries have lost favor in our eyes recently, but i do believe they will make a comeback! The school System is rapidly changing and Libraries are becoming great alternative locations for Homeschooling groups to congregate. Especially the libraries that let you reserve (For Free) small study or conference rooms for group stuff.
I’ve even used the study rooms to record videos for my class when i couldn’t get any quiet at home with my kids running around – so sweet!!!!
I can even imagine privatization of Libraries in the Future, where members pay a small subscription fee, and can get specialized library perks like classrooms and other school-like resources which let you do Home-schooling in a professional environment. Or let Private schools with limited funding (Like my school) have access to professional resources for a fraction of the cost it would take to maintain your own library!
Or we could just use the amazing resources we already have FOR FREEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Codename Library…. HERE WE COME!!!!!!!!!!!
By the way, this post came at such an awesome moment! I had a super hard day today at school (Teachers can relate to this one) and needed a boost on something exciting to do for my class
Thanks neville!
Oh, and bring manly looking Thermos filled with fresh brewed coffee from a french press, brewed exactly to your liking, to get your coffee fix at the library – (sorry Starbucks, but it’s over between us!)
Great thinking Adam……this ensures you can break into “Codename Library” for longer periods of time without giving them a dime ;-)
Great that you’re taking a school class to break into secret “Codename Library” Adam!
Here in Austin they’re upgrading the “Codename Library” into this enormous facility with books, fancy equipment, a coffee shop, a restaurant……it’s almost like they KNOW that people don’t necessarily just need books from the facility, but can also use it for other things to make them more productive.
Great job exposing young kids Adam!
Yo Nev! Absolutely killer post and I’m up there with you when it comes to being the cheerleader for these “Secret Government Agencies”.
My favorite hack –
1. Ask my closest “Secret Gov Agency” to ship the books placed on other far away agencies. Basically, one can get any book to their closest agency and then walk and check it out.
2. Our county’s “Secret Gov Agency” let’s us check out for 21 days. So when it’s at the 15 day mark and if it’s a hot new book, I’ll re-issue it from the online account.
3. However, often new books high in demand are pre-booked. So I walk to the “Secret Gov Agency” and ask one of the Secret Agents to help me checkout the book again. The following script works for me 8/10 times.
“Hi, Secret Agent. I was writing a paper on this book for my thesis work but it’s being reserved by someone else. Do you think you can help me check it out for another 21 days. Plzzzzz?”
These Secret Agents have the power to bypass online book holds. And often I walk back with the book and a gnomish grin on my face ;)
4. Actually, there’s one more hack. Sometimes you travel and forget to return the materials to these Secret Gov Agencies and then they fine you.
What do you do if you don’t want to pay?
You walk to one of the Secret Agents and then say –
“Hi, I have a fine on my account. Usually, I get an email when my return date is coming closer. But I didn’t get any this time. Please could you waive the fees this one time because I’ll be prompt from next time?”
And wallah, you can use your fine money to treat a homeless with a Taco or however you like to spend $.
Nev – if you are reading this like, I learned Kopywriting from you. =)
If you’re one of the commenters who clicked on ‘Notify me of followup comments via e-mail’, you’re badass!
Cheers!
Wow, great government spy work Secret Agent Ankur! These government fat-cats are so gullible it looks like they don’t even want to take your money ;-)
pssstt…you didn’t hear this from me about “codename” Library but…
My partner in crime and I go to this institution on a weekly basis. These are the things we’ve found in addition to eBooks, print, Audio books, etc. already mentioned.
1. Watch for The Friends of The Library weekly and annual sales where you can purchase books, cds, dvds, old vinyl albums, and more at deeply discounted prices. You can build an amazing library of new and classic books on the cheap.
2. If you live in or are visiting Washington DC and want to do something amazing, you can get a library card to the Library of Congress. All you have to do is fill out an online form, go to the library facilities across the street from the main library and get your picture taken. Then you can take the underground super-secret spy tunnels under the street to the reading room on the main floor of the library. From there you can wander around looking at the incredible art and architecture as well as having the librarians bring you books you are interested in. I got help from a specialty reference librarian who helped me find all sorts of obscure articles on the Folklore of Weather in the Missouri Ozarks. Including how to predict the severity of winter by cracking open persimmon seeds to see if they have a fork, spoon, or knife inside of them. The whole process of getting the library card to being in the reading room took less than 30 minutes. While you’re there check out Thomas Jefferson’s entire library…and again it’s all FREE!!!
4. You can become a digital volunteer for the Smithsonian by following this link https://transcription.si.edu/. It will show you how you can help transcribe and review handwritten works from the 1500’s to modern day so that they are searchable by scholars. Current projects right now are transcribing notes from Arctic Explorer, Charles Francis Hall from his trip in 1861 to Boethius’ De institutione arithmetica a 15th century illustrated manuscript, and no you don’t have to be able to read Latin to help.
6. Our local library has regular entertainment and lectures as well as art shows.
7. Visit famous libraries when you are in other towns. You can see amazing works of art such as the Sargent and Chavannes Murals in Boston. Or if you find yourself in New York, the public library there is beautiful.
8. Most all libraries have summer reading challenges for the kids and many have book clubs and community one reads for adults.
9. If your eyesight is compromised, head over to the large print section or the audio books.
10. Libraries are also great for people watching. Find a comfy place to read and every now and then look up to see what your fellow patrons are doing. Whether it’s a graduate student writing a paper, a mom and her mom looking up their ancestry, or just someone being drawn into a new world via a novel, libraries tell all sorts of stories even if not all of them are written down.
Wow, great list of secret ways to steal from “Codename Library” secret agent Gregory, possibly shirt-worthy spy work!
I’ve been using these facilities for ages – even interned in one of ’em in high school! (Back then we ran Sat. afternoon Disney movies – for free!)
Great way to save money, time, and effort – and I also go into them when I’m on the road to get a flavor for what other cities/states offer their patrons… er, I mean spies.
Wow….you’ve been breaking into “Codename Library” since high school?? Great job Secret Spy Mary!
Trained at an early age (6) to infiltrate these ‘libraries’ back in the day that reading sections were by age, often disciplined for reading books from the 15 year old shelves when I was 11.
Expert and giving lectures, I decided to skirt the edges of treason and soon I had a 1,000 of my own books at home. My own library! Before computers I was a rebel, prowling used book stores, church fairs, flea markets, building my own library. Then came university and THANK GOD high school was over!! Of course I promptly invaded the university library where I discovered the Holy Grail of libraries, so secret even YOU have not discovered it for your article. I call it “code named Thesis Stacks”. When I was taken to the floor of the ‘Thesis Stacks’ I swear I could feel my pupils dilating ?. As far as the eye could see, shelves filled with bound masters thesis on every subject imaginable.
I signed out and read 20 a day every day for three months until I had to concentrate on minor matters such as courses.
Stolen apples ? just taste better must be the reason Libraries are awesome.
lade gerade über torrent, ist aber bestimmt super :-)btw: Ein Podcast übers Podcasten würde mich auch sehr interessieren!!Mach’s zwar selber (noch) nicht, würde aber gerne mehr darüber wissen.und der letzte über Kaffee war super!!!!!!
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