You KNOW how I love sharing free stuff with you. Or at least leading you to links where you can download freebies for yourself. Here’s a few to kick off 2020.
Public Domain Day releases, 2020
January 1 is Public Domain Day — new resources enter the public domain every year. So, let’s start with some of the “new” old materials whose copyrights have lapsed as of January 1.
These are now free to download for various possible uses. Print personalized copies of old favorites. Republish a book with new introduction, annotations, or illustrations and sell the new edition. Create derivative works featuring familiar characters, stories, and songs. Among this year’s pickin’s are Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue and the first film adaptation of Peter Pan.
Mapping History
I love maps. I even wrote a song once with the line,
Johnny looks at maps like pin-ups —
He lusts after all the roads.
Indeed, a good map promises sweet adventure s down the road and destinations aplenty. Finding a treasure trove of historic maps like this one could keep me busy all year, just dreaming of times gone by and adventures abounding.
More Maps
Here’s another motherlode of maps, this one featuring topographic maps from National Geographic for outdoor adventurers.
Simplifying access to the extensive library of the US Geological Survey (USGS), this site provides easy access to downloadable, printable topo maps.
For Kids — of All Ages!
Here’s a link to coloring pages from 100 museums that you can download and print to color at home.
Don’t let the kids have all the fun, though! Adult coloring books are all the rage.
Blasts from the Past
Finally, here’s some free music for, recently digitized by the Boston Public Library from over 100,00 vinyl records. This collection features 750 full albums.
Enjoy!
Well, that oughta keep you busy — at least today. Don’t say I never gave you anything!
Buller's back porch 