Money Matters – Where to Invest Your College Money Workshop Scheduled for February 1 at the Central Library

What: Where to Invest Your College Money workshop
When: Wednesday, February 1, 2017
Time: 12:00-1:00 p.m.
Where: Central Library, Linn-Henley Research Library, Regional Library Computer Center (RLCC), 4th floor

Upcoming Dates/Workshops
3/1/2017 – Your Credit Report
4/5/2017 – Saving Through Tax Refunds
5/3/2017 – Five Keys to Investing Success
Time: 12:00-1:00 p.m.
Place: Central Library, Regional Library Computer Center

I think everyone would agree that getting accepted into the college of your choice is a thrilling event and a cause for great celebration. Unfortunately, having to face up to the task of paying for college is not nearly as joyous. According to the College Board, the average annual cost, including room and board, of attending a public university during the current school year of 2016-2017 is $20,092. That, of course, seems like nothing compared to the cost to attend a private university, which is $45,365. What’s even more frightening is that if you calculate college costs to continue to increase at the rather modest rate of 5% per year, then a student who is born this year and enters a public university in 2035 can expect to pay $48,353.79 during his/her freshman year and a total $208,410.89 for the entire four year undergraduate degree program. Figures like those will keep even the most financially competent parents up at night wondering how their child will afford college.

With higher education costs running so high, how can you possibly cover the expenses? Most families end up paying for college using a variety of sources including current income, accumulated savings, and student aid. A less popular but potentially very beneficial way of improving your financial capability is through investing. The problem with investing, however, is that it can be a very risky venture and most people do not possess the expertise to manage that risk appropriately. Of course, gaining knowledge is the crucial first step in developing an expertise in anything.

So, if you are interested in learning more about investing as a means of achieving your higher education goals, then plan on attending the Money Matters program, Where to Invest Your College Money on February 1, 2017, at the Central Library. The program presenters will be representatives from UAB’s Regions Institute for Financial Education.

Money Matters is a partnership between the Birmingham Public Library (BPL) and UAB’s Regions Institute for Financial Education to help promote a better understanding of personal finance. Money Matters programs are offered the first Wednesday of every month at the Central Library. For more information about the series and other financial literacy resources available at BPL, please contact Jim Murray of the Central Library’s Business, Science and Technology Department by e-mail at jmurray@bham.lib.al.us or by calling 205-226-3691.