Let the Library Help You Navigate Your Financial Goals

  • By Baltimore County Public Library

Forget the “new year, new you”  cliché. In 2025, the only resolution you need is to keep using the library! For those focusing on financial goals, we’ve got free programs, resources and expert advice to help you succeed.  

Join a Program 

We offer virtual and in-person programs with expert instructors, ready to answer your questions while teaching you how to reach your financial goals. Our winter programs focus on Social Security and Medicare, cryptocurrency, tax assistance and other finance-related topics. Here are a few highlights: 

Expert Money Tips 

Certified financial educator and library presenter Kathy T. Evans shares some tips to start 2025 off on the right foot financially. 

1. Set a Grocery Budget 

For many households, food is one of the most significant expenses. Without a clear grocery budget, it’s easy to overspend. Impulse buys, name-brand items and unnecessary snacks can quickly add up.

The fix: Start by tracking your grocery expenses for a month to understand how much you’re spending. Set a weekly or monthly limit, plan your meals ahead of time and stick to your shopping list. Also consider purchasing generic brands or shopping sales to save even more.

2.  Cook at Home 

Eating out or grabbing takeout may be convenient, but it’s one of the fastest ways to blow your food budget. The cost of a single restaurant meal could easily cover several home-cooked meals.  

The fix: Commit to preparing more meals at home. Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated—start with simple recipes or batch cooking. Not only will this save you money, but it’s also usually the healthier option. 

3.  Avoid Impulse Buys

It can be easy to spend money on things you don’t need—whether it’s trendy gadgets, clothes or décor. These impulse items can quickly bust your budget.

The fix: Differentiate between needs and wants. Before buying something, ask yourself if it’s truly necessary or if it can wait. Give yourself a 24-hour cooling-off period before making non-essential purchases to avoid impulse spending. 

4.  Track Spending

It’s impossible to control your finances if you don’t know where you’re spending your money. Many people overspend simply because they aren’t keeping tabs on their day-to-day expenses.

The fix: Track your spending using budgeting apps, spreadsheets or even a notebook. Categorize your expenses and review them weekly or monthly to identify patterns. Awareness is the first step to making better financial decisions.

5.  Build an Emergency Fund

Many people underestimate the importance of an emergency fund until they’re faced with unexpected expenses, like car repairs, medical bills or job loss. Without savings, these emergencies often lead to debt.

The fix: Start building your emergency fund by setting aside a portion of each paycheck. Aim for three to six months’ worth of living expenses. Automate your savings to make it easier and consistent.

Try StockTrak

Learn about buying stocks, long-term investing and more—risk free—using StockTrak! The online platform allows users to explore the world of investing through realistic stock market simulations. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to learn, and provides hands-on experience in trading stocks, bonds, mutual funds and more. The platform uses real-time market data and gives you the opportunity to create customizable portfolios. Register now to master the fundamentals of investing.

This free online source is available for a limited time thanks to a grant from FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority) and Foundation for Baltimore County Public Library.

Find a Book 

Check out our recommended finance books or ask our staff for suggestions. Let us help you make this your best financial year yet!

CategoryProgramming and Events