Anyone else prefer to watch the same movies or TV shows over and over and over? Are you leery of new media, and not just because it means another subscription you’ll forget to cancel? I’ll be the first to admit, my post-pandemic nerves cannot abide many cinematic surprises, especially danger and violence. So, I have my half dozen “go-to” shows that act like a security blanket. There is a scientific reason behind this. TL; DR: familiar = comfort.  

To find free copies of your favorite movies and shows, check out Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh’s various video resources:  

• Catalog: Request DVDs and Blu-Rays for pick up at your neighborhood location. 
  
• Hoopla: Download up to 10 items a month for free directly onto any device.
• OverDrive/Libby: Watch up to 10 films a month for free on your browser.

We can also help you find your next “Stranger Things” or “30Rock” with the Materials Match Form. Give us some of your favorite titles and we’ll send you a list of recommendations. Heck, we’ll even order them for you! 

In addition to library resources, if you want to vet a new show or movie before viewing, check out these useful resources:  

• Does the Dog Die?: DtDD is a catalog of “emotional spoilers” for movies, TV, books and more. Reviewers answer YES or NO if an animal perishes, is abused, or is hurt; users can click on an entry for more details. 
• Unconsenting Media: This database aims to provide information about sexual violence in TV and movies. Titles are rated by color (green=none, yellow=implied, red=graphic) along with brief, objective rationales for each rating.  
• Common Sense Media*: CSM offers independent age-based ratings and reviews from families and educators on movies, TV shows, books, podcasts, apps and more. *NOTE: Users can access three free reviews per month (it’s $3/month for unlimited access).  

You can sign up for a free library card here. If you are new to our eResources, check out these tutorial videos on how to get started.

Looking for a good book, album, movie or TV show? We’re happy to recommend them to you! Use this Personalized Recommendations form to send us some information about what you like and we’ll curate a list just for you.

If you have any additional questions, you can contact a librarian through Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. You can also call us at 412.622.3114 or email us at info@carnegielibrary.org.