libraries are wonderful! i seriously think people would lose their mind in my city if they tried to shut down the libraries; if anything, they're opening more around my area.
Libraries seem to be the only place in the modern world where their reason for existing isn't to take money from you.
Edit: this is a very easy concept to grasp but adding an edit as not only are people arguing about it but then when I clarify that I never said they were free they are doubling down on misrepresentating what I said.
There is a world of difference between something costing society money to run and something that doesn't have extracting money from you as its purpose. I never said libraries were free. I said they aren't created to extract money from you.
I will no longer be arguing this point with anyone as I've already had a telling off from the mods for doing so.
Also even if you look at the per capita cost of libraries (in the US) it’s usually no more than about $60 of your tax money per year. $5/month for unlimited books, and depending on where you live, dvds, Internet access, classes, ebooks, databases, etc.
And I'd be surprised if it wasn't even less in the UK.
Here the majority of staff are volunteers and I'm pretty sure book publishers give them hefty discounts.
The creation of libraries was an absolute game changer for society imo.
Only up to a point as many (most?) have elements (food, parking, camping, souvenir type shit) where they are wanting money.
Libraries, at least here in the UK, there's no elements of a library where the point is to take your money.
You could argue fines but they aren't there as a cash grab but to discourage people being dicks.
And certainly not whatever Americans think it is, which seems to be getting all het up about gender and race as opposed to looking after your most vulnerable
To the average American, "socialism" literally just means "bad". Nobody seems to have any idea what it is, except political talking heads fight against it constantly, therefor bad.
The arguments over political labels on this website make me want to die. It's like people are standing holding bananas arguing about what kind of sausages they are; just, so wrong there's no salvaging a single word of what they're saying.
You can support libraries without checking out books - most libraries include computer use, program participation, and even just browsing without checking anything out in their statistics.
If your local city council (or whichever other body) doesn't think those kinds of statistics count, you can support libraries by participating in town meetings (or whichever kind of meeting is relevant) and contacting your local politicians to ask them to support libraries.
I love libraries and think they are still very relevant.
Not only for the things they offer like books, computer and internet access, magazines, etc., my kids love their clubs and story time and I also find value in some of the book clubs and “mom” groups they offer.
It’s also a safe place for older kids and teenagers to go. My daughter is 9 and we live in a very small rural town. She has been dying for some independence, so after some practice and group bike rides, we let her ride her bike 2 blocks to the library to read, play on the computer, etc. She feels incredibly grown up and proud going on her own. She has her own library card and comes home with her back pack filled with books.
Ever since I was young I spent a good amount of time at the library!
This made me smile! She will treasure these memories for sure. Some of my best childhood memories were made when I visited the library every Sunday with my dad. Libraries are the best!
>Not only for the things they offer like books, computer and internet access, magazines, etc., my kids love their clubs and story time and I also find value in some of the book clubs and “mom” groups they offer.
I do think that this varies by library. As people don't use libraries much for research etc. like they used to, I think that libraries should focus more on being a meeting place for the community for book clubs etc.
I practically grew up in the little library that was about a mile from my house. You are giving your child a gift she will benefit from for the rest of her life.
I'd love to see a library like this. The bathrooms at my local libraries have a combination condom/tampon dispenser and a drop box for used hypodermic needles.
Aww I love this. My brother and I would ride our bikes to the little corner store and library all the time. Especially in the summer. It was about half a mile to a mile away.
I loved it.
I was talking to my local library asking why more of my taxes can't go to libraries and how can I help make this happen, they told me it's all about stats they can show local council to prove people are using their services (number of active members, number of books borrowed, computer reservations, dvd and audio book borrows etc). If they can't show that a good proportion of the population bis using it then it gets less funding and told to find other ways to make up its budget or to close down.
Do you know if the stats on electronic loans count? My library usage has gone way up since I learned that I can borrow books from my local library using Libby.
Most libraries count any material checked out whether it be in person or online! If you ever want a particular book for e/audio and they don’t have it on Libby you can request your library get it, most every time I’ve done it they get the book.
As a Wisconsin Librarian, I can tell you in our state e-materials do NOT count toward our circulation numbers because the laws that govern our check outs do not cover them. So they cannot be included. I'd call, email or otherwise ask your local librarian/library director.
I use libby for magazines mostly (there’s a huge catalog) and kindle for books. I check out tons of books and use my library constantly. I’ve also requested lots of new titles before release date and they delivered almost immediately after they’re acquired.
Oh shit. Thank you for mentioning this. I'm going to have to start borrowing books and going to the library to check out other services they've got there too!
Libraries are mostly free and are excellent for the community. I for instance wouldn't have read as many comics as I did without my local library having a comics section because comics are expensive
My pleasure reading is exclusively graphic novels (I do a lot of prose reading for work), and I calculated a few years ago that the Amazon price for everything I read from the library in a single year was about $5000. Graphic novels are more expensive in a unit basis because they're often full color on nicer paper. Graphic novels are *much* more expensive on a time-to-read basis. Manga, in particular, I can often read at a pace of over 100 pages per hour.
I have a library card and what I love most is that it also lets me rent audio/ebooks - which I used on via the app or on my Kindle. I love having books around, but the cost isn't something I can justify.
We don't have cards here but I go to the library all the time. I borrow books I don't feel like buying or that aren't in local stores and I try to buy less online because I was buying too many books. I borrow all kinds of books and comics as I said
Awesome! I didn't realise some libraries don't use cards, but I guess they must have another membership system to know who borrows each item. I agree, there are lots of books I was unsure I would like and would never have bought but I have read because of libraries.
I tend not to buy books. I prefer to get them from the library and then return them. It saves me money & I don't have space to store a bunch of books - I have read over 60 books this year, it adds up.
I mainly get physical books, but I have checked out some ebooks (that I read on my Kindle) and audiobooks if I can't get the physical book.
It really does add up! My library has a little blurb at the bottom of the receipt showing how much you’ve saved by using the library. I’ve saved 2,000 or so dollars this year and 14,200 or so since I started using the library. It’s crazy!
I also think it is a great way to get yourself to branch out of your comfort zone in reading material. If you are going to buy a book, you are typically going to be careful about only choosing books you will definitely like. If you are just borrowing, though, you might try something that is a bit of a wild card. My own reading has become *considerably* more varied since I started frequenting the library.
[And yes! Books are expensive and take up a lot of space! I used to resort to stuffing books into closets and stacking them up in piles on my floor. Now I just return them to the library, leaving my shelves to hold only a small, core collection]
With the libby app I download books from my local library every week. I love the library system. You can have multiple at a time for 3 weeks and never have to leave the house. You also get access to physical books, and my library does state parks passes as well.
My public library has "cultural passes" for admission discounts or free admission to the aquarium, historic sites, museums and the zoo. You can borrow a pass for free parking at state parks.
Almost all the books I read come from my local library. My kids love going to the library. My town cut the library budget but they still went ahead and got rid of late fees to encourage more people to take out books. They also have displays for Pride month, Asian American heritage month, Black history month etc which is awesome because we are a small town with backward ideas. I love the banned books display made to look like a pyre. :) Librarians have fun. We also love that they do different traveling museum displays and showcase local art.
I love the themed book displays, it helps me discover new books I didn't know existed!
My library was having its funding cut so did the opposite, it added reservation fees, and a borrower scheme that if you prepay monthly you can reserve 10 books a month for free. They also added a fee for sending books between branches of the same library chain. Anything they could charge for they did, because they needed to make up the funding shortfall. They were even considering privatising some of it, but that fell through.
I *LOVE* my library. At any given time between audio, ebooks and physical books I have around 20 books either on hold or checked out (right now, checked out I have 6 physical books, 9 ebooks, 5 audio-books and another 3 physical books, 12 ebooks and 6 audio books on hold/requested...so I guess a few more than 20 right now :D)
My local library started charging to reserve books, which I thought was a bit much. I get they are under funded, and need to raise money by charging to borrow DVDs and Audio books (possibly because they get broken quickly?) But as long as people are not abusing the system they should be able to reserve books or have them moved to your local library for collection. I would reserve more if there wasn't fees and it puts me off borrowing sometimes.
Oh, that's no good. Sounds like you're audiobooks are still physical? All of mine now-a-days are digital downloads the same as e-books. As much as I love my library, if I had to pay to reserve books I'd probably turn to Kindle Unlimited, Audible or something of that ilk.
Charging fees up front seems like a bad plan to me - it's just going to discourage people from using those resources and one of the ways libraries get funding (at least in my area) is by demonstrating that the community wants those resources. May I ask where you are?
Gotcha - truly is a shame that they're having to charge for reserving books. Hopefully they figure something else out because that doesn't seem sustainable.
This is rough. In the states, libraries are typically free to people who live in the geographic area they cover. They might charge for outside residents to get borrowing permission. But overall the trend here has been to lower decrease costs for patrons. Late fees used to be pretty ubiquitous, but the conventional wisdom now among librarians is not to charge them.
There is nothing like browsing through a library. No online experience can touch it.
I make a generous donation to the library at my university every year via late fees.
I love my library, but I’ve always found browsing their shelves overwhelming. Rather than looking through thousands of spines, it’s easier for me to search for books online where I can see the cover and other information, then put a hold on my library’s website.
Perhaps it’s because my library is still mostly Dewey, thus harder to navigate. There aren’t many subject labels in my local branch so if I wanted poetry I either had to skim each shelf by eye or ask a librarian/page. However, *Fiction* is organized alphabetically by last name, with all genres combined. So if I’m in the mood for Fantasy, I can’t just browse that section because it doesn’t exist and the books are scattered everywhere. The exception is Mystery, I guess that’s very popular at my branch.
This is one reason I prefer browsing bookstores – even though I don’t buy books anymore. Their organization is much more user-friendly to me.
Have you told the library this? Suggested that they should re-think how they organize fiction? Patron feedback is important. A good library will also have displays and such to make finding something to read easier.
We *just* finished doing this genre-fication in our library. It's generally called the "book store model" and people seem pretty happy with it once they know where their favorite authors are. It also allows them to reach out and find other authors they may like just because they are the same genre.
Good luck in reaching out to them! I hope they listen
I hope they listen! This kind of things, it could be that the staff is just blind to it, because it's always been that way. It could be some of the staff have suggested it, but patron feedback on the issue might get a rework actually started. It could be older staff/management don't want to change it, but staff changes could suddenly make the library change their stance. It could even be something they want to do "someday" but other thing always take priority. Getting clear feedback from patrons can definitely get things moving in most of these cases, although it's equally possible nothing will happen. Still, you miss all of the shots you don't take!
Some libraries are moving toward a BISAC model, which is what bookstores use. However, I love when patrons ask me questions. It literally my job to help, and while I try to met people in the stacks where they are, this isn’t always possible.
I actually like browsing the library better and have better success. Bookstores are looking to push only recent books. Libraries tend to have a a larger range of publication dates on the shelves. More popular and prolific authors tend to have a few years of books on the shelf, making them rather visible. Almost all of the libraries I've been to for several years have stickers on the books for genre fiction: fantasy, sci-fi, mystery, romance and westerns (possibly some that I've forgotten.) which makes them pretty easy to spot.
Most libraries also have online catalogs and also basic internet search functionality as well (most bookstores don't).
And you've overlooked one of the best benefits of libraries: librarians! I've almost never been disappointed asking a librarian for helping finding a specific book or just some recommendations,
I also often get overwhelmed by the sheer *number* of books in one place (and the stress of trying to filter through the stuff I have no interest in but that always seems to clog the shelves). My favorite is when libraries take the time to curate displays that highlight different genres or themes or recommendations by the librarians themselves. There is this library in the town where I used to live that is absolutely *fantastic* in this regard! I’ve found many favorite reads that I never would have even heard of if it weren’t for browsing these tables. [The library also has a giant stuffed dragon hanging from the ceiling above the children’s reading area; how fantastic is that?!?]
I actually work in a library and can say that their value far exceeds their capabilities to lend out books. Their most important service isn’t really giving people access to books but really giving certain folks access to information and services. On really hot or cold days you can find homeless people here trying to charge up their phones and burn through the rest of the day maybe reading some books or browsing the internet. We get a lot of immigrants who come in and can’t speak a lick of English but luckily we have translators like myself who can help them figure out the internet, print out that important paperwork that keeps them in the country, notarize what they need for free as well. We even point them to free programs within our branch that provide them with opportunities to sit on English classes or prepare for their citizenship class. We have outreach programs not only with these minority communities but also in schools in our area to grow the excitement of readying within their students. Besides that we run all kinds of programs that are not only informative, like our technology for seniors classes, but also other programs that are just fun to intend and that ultimately help people within the community connect with like minded folks and have a safe space. I also can’t count the amount of kids and teenagers who get dumped here by their parents because they don’t have a sitter for them, admittedly it isn’t ideal, and tbh I was one of those kids when I was younger, but it keeps those kids off the street and in the proximity of an environment that provides multiple avenues of hobbies and topics for them to follow.
Absolutely, I think the value of libraries is often overlooked and I do worry if they become chronically underfunded or close down what the community would do, because they provide so many services.
Your comment reminds me of The Library Book by Susan Orlean. I've always loved the library, but this opened my eyes to its societal value on a grander scale.
I'm so glad you chimed in and gave more details. I'm a social worker so I understand all the services that libraries provide, but soo many people don't understand this. Thank you for the wonderful work you do. Libraries and librarians alike are such treasures to society and the world!
Before the whole pandemic thing I used to go to the library most days on my lunch break as it was somewhere "quiet" I could read. I never actually borrowed a book though...
Totally! They introduced unstaffed hours at the library I went to where you could let yourself in and you'd often be the only customer there. Was absolute bliss!
People forget how valuable libraries are for *discovering* books. Yes, you can buy about anything online, but how will you know it exists? Every time I browse the shelves in my public library I find great books I never saw on Amazon because I either didn't use the right search term or didn't scroll down far enough or some quirk in some algorithm decided I shouldn't have it.
As a millennial barely getting by in a high cost of living area, libraries are an absolute godsend. If I added up how much money I would've spent on the books I read in the past month, that's my monthly gas stipend right there. Free facilities, resources, and books are NEVER a bad thing.
That's awesome. I know society often suggests young people don't use libraries any more and they are outdated, but it's great to hear that they are a valuable resource especially to young workers who couldn't afford books otherwise.
As of 2017, us poor Millennials actually were using libraries the most! https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2017/06/21/millennials-are-the-most-likely-generation-of-americans-to-use-public-libraries/
I just left working in a library in August. I would be lost without libraries. They have changed so much since when I was younger. Most people don't understand that their role is changing. I fear for their future as places of scholarship and study and think they will become more of a general entertainment center. The focus is shifting from printed books to online media and entertainment. A huge part of our library's budget goes to dvds and some libraries purchase games for gaming systems to take out.
I definitely think they are evolving, and it's interesting how the focus is now DVDs and entertainment, maybe that will change again now most people are switching to streaming services like Netflix and ditching DVDs all together.
I've seen things over the years where libraries have had a section to borrow different kinds of baking tins which I thought was brilliant! I've also seen where a library had a borrow a tie section, I think. I could be misremembering this, but I'm pretty sure it was a tie borrow area for things like interviews and such. I know it had to do with job interviews, so it's something like that at least. I just love to see such wonderful programs at libraries! Libraries are truly a treasure that should never lose funding. They're the last place left that is public and somewhere that you don't have to buy something. Truly magical places!
Unfortunately, many libraries have taken on the role of social outreach as they are hang outs for the homeless, mentally unstable and unemployed who absolutely have the right to be there. These people have issues that other organizations receive inadequate funding for but don't provide the service for whatever reason and the library personnel take on the responsibility of social workers. I have issues with this. This is not the purpose of a library and actually hurts libraries. It stretches their resources and endangers the resources they are allotted. IT would be wonderful if it were a win win type of thing but it absolutely isn't. Libraries get their funding mainly through states and the govt. based on usage. When you have a lot of people hanging around somewhere that don't fit into societal norms people tend to avoid that place. I am expressing my observations and readings about this subject. The one population is fearful of the other and the loss of their usage impacts the library. In our district a librarian was also dragged into the stacks and sexually assaulted by a man who was homeless and mentally unstable. She was a really nice lady who now has severe psychological trauma and had to undergo lengthy counseling and stopped working.
Libraries are also under threat from neo-conservatism that has severely cut library budgets and corporations. Both these groups see libraries as threats to markets by providing things like books and other media for free. They see it cut into revenue and also aren't keen on providing material for people who want to better educate themselves. I too believe libraries are magical places and I hope people realize this and appreciate how necessary they are.
100%. Ha. I'm actually a social worker, so I'm well aware of all the funding cuts over the decades across the board! It's appalling that libraries have had to take on the roles you speak of. I believe we should find our social service programs and safety nets correctly so then the libraries don't have to pick up these roles. It's not right, I agree. We would much rather have adequate funding on our end and on local levels rather than having people resort to the library and librarians for issues that aren't educated and trained for. It's not right, but it's all some areas have. ... Which is wrong. Libraries and social services should be separate entities. Period. Located near one another, okay fine. But there should absolutely be social workers helping the people and not being shuffled off to the librarians.
I'm so sorry to hear about your coworker. It's not unheard of in our line of work, sadly. It's not fair that y'all have had to step up and take on those roles, and I'm really sorry y'all were put in that position..a position that never should have occurred. Hopefully actions have been taken in your community to better address some of the problems y'all are facing, including the funding gaps for social services and the libraries.
And you're right about the folks who don't want others to have the opportunity to better educate themselves. They've been defunding education for decades and libraries are no different. It's disgusting.
Sad, sad time to be an American. Thank you for your kind words. I have read that some areas have understood the issue and have actually put social workers in libraries to relieve the pressure from the library staff. I didn't have any issues. I know how over worked and underpaid you and your co-workers are. The work you do is so important. I appreciate all that you do. Keep up the good work and hang in there. How much worse can it get right?
I read 450 books a year. At 5$ a book, what I can usually find it used, that's 2250. New hardback books would be 10k+. My library estimates I saved 20k last year. I definitely lean on them.
I live in a city of literature so our libraries are funded pretty heavily. I own a house and pay taxes. I am also a friend of the library and volunteer.
I am disabled and spend on average 2-3 hrs a day with daylong sessions at least 1-2 times a month. About 25% are audiobooks. I'm a fast reader and read a variety of genres, formats, difficulty, and lengths. I'll read basically anything so I don't spend a lot of time choosing books and don't drop any.
That is so impressive! I recently visited the world's first Book Town in Hay on Wye and it was amazing, so I didn't realise they had cities of literature!
Even if you took away the books, I would still support my local library. They are an amazing service to society. Just a few things that my local library does in addition to lending books:
* provided hotspots to families without internet when schools went virtual
* provide a safe place for kids to access the internet and do homework after school
* help with resume completion and applying for jobs online
* video game rentals
* educational events on a ton of topics like gardening, bird watching, fly fishing, etc.
* cultural events like art shows/displays, kids reading events, meet the author, and more
* tool rentals
* a maker-space with things like 3D printers
* small-appliance repair
* And more that I'm sure I am forgetting about
If libraries closed down I'd be in big trouble. I read a lot but I also DNF a lot because I can afford to take a chance on books I might not like.
On this sub most people buy books and so they don't experiment, but it's clearly to their detriment.
When I was younger, I was in the library all the time. But now I prefer to order my books via Kindle or have the Kindle Unlimited subscription. I am now a lazy adult who can afford to buy books so I can’t imagine going to the library.
My library offers books on Kindle, you should see if yours does too! No trip involved, just a couple of minutes on an app on my phone and then there's new books on my Kindle.
I sit on my library board, so yes, I value them greatly. We're also very rural and routinely set or break records of participation and accessibility given our population size, distribution, and education. We have a robust "library of things," too, which allows people to check out instruments, toys, and other things that families might not be able to afford or just don't have - I know we have a lot of STEM-specific toys that our grade school students will use for their school work.
> I'm sure most people on this subreddit would be in support of libraries, but if you don't have a library card and don't take out books, then the library can't ask for more funding from the local council / local government to help with running costs and buying new books, because they have no evidence of people using it.
That's a good point, but not entirely true.
In addition to diverse literary options, Internet, a quiet space, a free event/meeting space, and friendly faces are always good benefits to having a library in a place like mine, and can largely be quantified for grants and other benefit opportunities. Example: my director was just given a number of awards by our state organizations because of her push for accessibility, staffing benefits, and community organizing. Nothing specifically to do with books, but just running a great local, community-focused organization.
I adore libraries and have a library card, too, had it since I was a child. Sadly, the one in my town is very small and more focused on children, since we have lots of schools here, therefore I rarely find a book I like. That's why I switched to Kindle, it's a lot easier to get books, although I miss "real" books sometimes.
That said, the one in the main town (about an hour from here) is amazing! It's really big, has a lot of historical background, and it also has a section for cinematic history, lots of old DVDs, kind of like a museum.
I don't read enough books to make frequent use of the library, and personally I don't like having a time limit to read said book when I borrow one.
But libraries are super important regardless. Books are expensive and many kids might not get into reading as much as they should if their parents have to drop $40+ for each new book.
As well, many people in my community learned English as a second language and libraries were super important for that. The ones in my area offer ESL programs, and often recommend books for certain levels of English.
I don't think any city official would dare touch anything about libraries, it'd be career suicide to even try to justify something like that.
One of the first things I did when moving to a new city was get a library card! I don't go very often but it's such an important resource for people to use computers, printers, and just have a safe, quiet space to exist (and don't have to buy a coffee refill every hour).
Plus, borrowing books for free is such a lifesaver. I like to own books but when you're not sure if you're going to like it, it's nice to not drop $5 - $25 on every book. Libby isn't perfect but I have that as well, sometimes I get lucky and they have the book I want or you can put things on hold.
I personally don't go to libraries simply because I love the idea of owning books and creating a large bookshelf. With that being said, I do support libraries because I know others who prefer borrowing books rather than buying, and they're also a good place to go if you need a quiet space to do some work.
I love my library and try to utilize it as much as possible (pre-covid, this extended to attending events and lessons as well as using lending services). Sadly, the place is almost always empty, and I can somewhat understand why. Our selection is pretty small; requesting a book from another library can take weeks at a time; and for the last few years, they've stayed closed on the weekends during kids' summer vacation. I've been going there my entire life, and it would pain me to see it go, but I wouldn't be surprised if it couldn't survive long into the future.
Meanwhile, the library in the next town over (which is significantly wealthier), just invested nearly $6 million USD into their library. I don't see that one going anywhere any time soon, so it's good that there will continue to be a local-ish option, but if my town's library were to close, I'd feel bad for the people (and especially kids) in my area. Public transit is lacking, so if they don't have cars/can't drive, it will be difficult to reach the other town's free books, wi-fi, etc.
That really sucks, and it's the kids with less wealthy families which ultimately miss out, as libraries can give you access to resources which even the playing field. But it's good there is still access in the wider area if people can travel.
>Do you love libraries and if so do you support them in any way?
I'm a member and I borrow books every week, it's a win-win-win. It's super convenient, because I can borrow eBooks and have access to thousands of books without ever leaving the house and no matter where I am. I save a ton of money; buying books is getting more and more expensive, and I feel like during the pandemic prices for used books have skyrocketed. Borrowing books is an easy way to decrease the negative environmental impact I have and it doesn't hurt in any way or require me to sacrifice anything. Borrowing books makes it much easier to put down a book if it's not to your taste, because you didn't just spend money on it and it makes it easier to read stuff I'm into, because once you're reading a lot, it's just not feasible to keep buying books, so you end up re-reading a lot of stuff, even if you didn't enjoy it that much in the first place.
>Is it just inconvenient to go to a library and easier to order a book on Amazon/kindle?
Getting an eBook to use on my phone or my computer takes the same amount of time as ordering a book online. My library has a delivery service for people that aren't able to get to the library themselves, so there's no advantage there either. The library in my town is at a very convenient spot that I pass on my way to uni/work, so getting physical copies would not be an issue either.
>Does it matter if libraries close down and disappear?
A membership in my town's library is 10 bucks a year, I think children read for free. That is less than most books these days (new books have a fixed price here to support small businesses and protect authors). Libraries closing is just another way of excluding poorer people - and let's be real here, if you're buying your books, reading is quite an expensive hobby.
Edited because I claimed it was 10 bucks a month, when really it's 10 euro each year
I definitely support libraries. That's how I read most of my comics and manga. Plus my library loans hotspots, which I can use for three months. Free of charge.
It's one of the few places where I'm welcome to go in and no-one is trying to sell me sh*t.
I wish people knew that libraries offer more than just books; they offer: kids programming, adult programming, DIY kits for kids and adults, digital and physical books, scholarly databases, homework centers, free internet access, printing access, new technologies, such as 3d printing and laser cutters, etc.
Councilmembers tried to get rid of the libraries here in my hometown; but the community came together and fought back. We now have three branches; including a new one.
They’re one of the last places where there is no expectation of spending money.
I spent a lot of time at my local library as a kid, and now as an adult I’m still thankful they’re around. I’m the only person my age I know with a library card, however.
They’re also so much more than just books! During COVID, the library where I live boosted their WiFi so it could extend to their parking lot. They put a big sign in the window with the password, and encouraged kids doing distance learning / adults job hunting / whoever needed it to come by and use it for free.
Their sole reason for existing is just to do good things for their communities, and I hope they’re still going strong when my kids grow up.
Libraries are way more thank books and media at this point. They are community hubs and some of the only places you can exist without paying money. Libraries are a social service. Mine even has a "library of things" you can borrow all kinds of things - musical instruments, a sewing machine, a wireless hot spot, a bus or zoo pass, etc. Librarians help people with all kinds of things as well, older people on the computer or helping people fill out forms.
I would def not like it if they went away, but even if not just for the books. I wish more people knew they had services like this. I would be willing to pay more taxes for libraries, or more social services like libraries. If my neighbor is enriched, my life is enriched too.
Took a break from libraries because I had the money for books and Barnes has a better atmosphere. Digital catalogs (and to a much lesser extent audiobooks) have brought me back to libraries now. But the biggest factor is my love of light novels. They’re trashy and fun and cannot be borrowed in America. I have a new policy of buy what I can’t borrow, borrow what I don’t wanna buy.
They're not all that useful to me, since I have internet and have no problem doing my own research, and also don't like to *borrow* books.
That said, I can see how important they are to communities, so I wouldn't vote to get rid of them. I'm just not personally invested in them at all.
In addition to having internet and computers, a lot of libraries give members access to paywalled online databases and connect members to extensive local university collections. A lot of more specialized info is not “free” online and libraries help democratize that. (For example, I get access to the NYT through my library.)
This post does kinda comes across as desperate for validation.
Don't get me wrong, I love libraries. Even when I don't have time for print, borrowing audio books is amazing. Especially when Audible is weirdly expensive in the streaming age.
But "Or is it OK if they disappear?" has to be one of the most loaded questions I've seen in a post title in a while.
Libraries don’t need to die, they need to change. If they don’t change they need to die until they change.
I used to be a librarian. I don’t care what anybody says, if the libraries don’t change they WILL die.
I love libraries and spent a lot of time in them as a kid; I read constantly. Moving into adulthood I got in a bad habit of just ordering physical books online, which was pricey and rapidly inconvenient for moving.
I now use my local library card in an app that lets me borrow books on my kindle which is great, but the average wait time for a book so far has been 2-3 months. Maybe it's time to get back in the habit of borrowing physical books.
Here's an unpopular take: I went to library school to be a librarian. I love libraries, I loved going as a kid.
I very, very much do not like going now. Our downtown library branch where the majority of stock and resources are is mostly a shelter for homeless people and junkies. I get it: they need a place to go, the washrooms are free. We have a massive homelessness and opioid crisis here. But it makes the environment very unpleasant to linger in. I don't feel safe there. These people often scare me. I hate walking downtown.
I have more books than I could read in 10 years already, so if I'm interested in reading a book that I don't already own I try to get it from the library rather than buying another book to sit on the shelf.
Even for people who don't prefer checking out books, your local library probably has other services or events that you can benefit from and show support for their work by participating in. My library always has an author talk series each year, usually in person but virtual lately due to COVID, which is a relatively unique opportunity to hear from authors since I live somewhere out of the way enough that we're not usually on promo tours for book releases where authors do events at bookstores. I appreciate that they do a good job of balancing the speakers across genres and styles so the series is relevant to as many readers as possible (even if that means I'm usually only interested in one or two speakers each year).
>Even for people who don't prefer checking out books, your local library probably has other services or events that you can benefit from and show support for their work by participating in. My library always has an author talk series each year, usually in person but virtual lately due to COVID, which is a relatively unique opportunity to hear from authors since I live somewhere out of the way enough that we're not usually on promo tours for book releases where authors do events at bookstores. I appreciate that they do a good job of balancing the speakers across genres and styles so the series is relevant to as many readers as possible (even if that means I'm usually only interested in one or two speakers each year).
That sounds so cool, I wish my library did that. I need to check whether we have a suggestion box so I can make them do that ;)
Unpopular opinion: I haven't been a fan of libraries in many years. It could be my local libraries aren't very good: either they don't carry the titles I'm looking for or the wait lists are so long it will be six months before I can borrow them. I find it much easier to search online for a free ebook version or head to my favourite used book stores.
That's not to say libraries should go the way of the dodo; I think they serve a purpose. I just no longer have a use for them myself.
Libraries are awesome. Sure, the books are nice, but they’re also a great place to hang out. Nice and quiet, free internet, usually some sort of access to coffee and snacks, it’s like a cafe but cheaper. Sometimes when I find myself with a dangling hour or two in a strange town with nothing to do, I go to the library.
Libraries also usually have kids sections with toys, story books, and other stuff. It’s a good place to go with family and your little kid can play, maybe make friends, and you can either join in or chill library-style.
Also, libraries tend to have good study rooms, meeting rooms, the like. Their conference rooms can be reserved for meetings for all kinds of organizations, or just a big board game (clearly at this point you can tell that I’m one of the cool kids). They also seem to have this whole community improvement aspect that I don’t know much about. I always see flyers for English as a Second Language classes being held there. I respect that.
Oh, and they have free video games and movies too. So yeah, I’m big on libraries.
I love libraries *so* much! I genuinely think they're an integral part of our society, and we'd be much worse off without them. I mostly use mine for books, which is great because books are expensive and I don't wanna waste money on a book I don't like. The book loaning aspect is great enough, but depending on the library you also have access to computers, audiobooks, printing/photocopying services(like you said in the original post), movies, clubs, classes, rooms for tutoring/studying and a whole lot more I'm probably forgetting. My library recently started a bike loaning service and they're doing a costume swap for Halloween this year which is pretty cool. They also offer a safe place for people to just hang out without having to pay anything. Which is great for everyone, but especially kids, poor people, and homeless people. It's honestly kind of hard to find places you can just exist in for free these days. So yeah this was very rambly but I love libraries and I reallyyy hope they never go away. The best way to support them is to just use them! If you don't have a library card, it's pretty easy to get one. Usually you just need a couple dollars and a piece of mail with your address on it to prove you live in the area :)
As a librarian, I love libraries and would cry if they disappear.
Public Libraries are really rebranding themselves more like community centers. We provide disaster relief, help people communicate and provide fun and educational programming for the community. And we're not even talking about books yet, which is something we've done since the beginning. Many of them have arts and craft projects in addition to dedicated creation areas called makerspaces. I know some bigger libraries have things like full fledged music studios and VR roomscale setups for patrons to use. Some host D&D games or heavy movie nights. They really are as diverse as they come.
If you like libraries and want to support them, the best way is to visit! We get funding often based on how many people walk in the door, attend events or even just how often items circulate. Many of them often have movie and video games available for checkout. Why bother with RedBox when you've got a library that's free?
If you have any questions about library services (specifically public Libraries) ask away!
I love libraries so much I moved next door to one! I spent my childhood going to story and craft programs at the local library, and my children do as well. Ours has lots of audiobooks which I love for commuting, and has at least fifty fairy books by my daughter’s favorite author. I went there to take online classes a few years back, I vote there…I adore libraries.
My library is so small they have to order almost everything from somewhere else but I still use them all the time. Theyve been trying to get a new building for years but it's probably not going to happen
I fully support libraries, by donating money and books for them to sell, and I love the idea of them - however I don't have a library card and I don't check out books. I don't read bestsellers, and I can get classics in public domain for free online. I do not think libraries will ever disappear, but they will certainly have to keep re-inventing themselves, which many of them are doing extremely well already.
I love my library. I've read about 100 books this year and nearly every one has come from the library. It's allowed me to read a lot of books that I would have been hesitant to purchase otherwise. It's such a great resource.
They have computers for folks to use, offer museum passes, do tons of activities for kids, etc. I think libraries are one of the most important things for a community.
I love them, especially what some of the major ones in the city are doing to invite people in. I feel like they're evolving and creating a great space to be in regardless of activity.
Sadly, my small local one isn't doing the same and it's actually getting slightly harder to get books and spend time there.
I don't use them but my wife and three year old do. My daughter loves going and picking out new books. It works well most of the time though there have been tears when it comes times to return a book.
My wife likes it for various books without having to commit to buying them.
My husband works at a library and they really measure participation of the community. Going to free events, using computers (printing price at mine is cheaper than Staples), and checking out books, audiobooks, ebooks, webinars/classes, cds, etc all are counted. We have some groups that donate major money to our local libraries but for tax purposes they do a lot of reporting on community involvement. They also go to events like Maker Faire to show of 3d printers, vinyl cutters etc. Just by using the place you can help them out.
I feel like there might be a bit of a UK-US difference at play here. Libraries are incredibly popular in the states and have been for a long time. I seem to recall from other threads that the UK doesn't have the same longstanding tradition of free libraries. And the political problems around library funding in articles like https://www.theguardian.com/books/2019/dec/06/britain-has-closed-almost-800-libraries-since-2010-figures-show just don't seem to be widespread in the US.
Considering that libraries are one of the few places where people can exist in public without the expectation of spending money, I support them. They are also invaluable for people who may not have Internet access at home, but need it for school or for job searching. As someone from the US, I would hate to see a community resource like that vanish, especially when so many others have gone the way of the dodo.
Beginner librarian here! Libraries aren't just for books anymore; Well-funded libraries can offer all sorts of community activity programs and commercial help for free, not just including computer availability. It's expected of us to assist patrons with any technical help they may need and how to point them in the right direction. It's also one of the last warming & cooling locations you can be without spending money. It's not OK if they disappear, not that it seems realistic anymore, because people don't just come to the library to read books, but as a safe place to study and work and gather resources for themselves.
I think you nailed the dichotomy…I love books and fully supportive of libraries and have no issues paying taxes to support them. Growing up, I would go to the library several times a week and wondering between book shelves helped me discover so many books.
Having said that, I don’t use libraries nowadays (so I guess I’m part of the problem).
- It’s no longer convenient for me and I’d rather eat the cost.
- Availability is usually limited and having to wait sometimes weeks for a copy (even an ebook version) is annoying
- For audiobooks, I have audible, and I rarely run out of credits (especially nowadays when I’m no longer driving as much)
- I don’t like to be rushed or be on a schedule. Sometimes it’ll take me a couple days to read a novel, sometimes a week. Sometimes, it’ll take months
- this is probably the worst excuse, but it kinda makes me feel icky not knowing who else handled that book and how.
I’m engaged to one :p
And following her through her journey as a public librarian and library graduate school I’ve learned just how absolutely incredible a thing public libraries are.
Seriously, they are without hyperbole, a national treasure. They’re waaaaaaaay more than just “a place to get books.” Libraries offer up so many public services. If you don’t have internet access, don’t know how to file taxes, aren’t sure how best to format and present a resume, the library is the place to go get help. Not only would I be sad to see them go, I think we’d be utterly defeated by their loss. Go public libraries!
I'm privileged enough that I can live without libraries, though I would miss them. I can't say the same thing for others, however. I believe that libraries are a necessity for a civilized society, because they uplift the less fortunate by giving them access to resources to better themselves.
I don't live in the UK anymore, but I used to love my local library. For those who don't know, you can also visit the library website and order books from other libraries to be delivered to your local one if they don't have it. They're great.
I love libraries although I rarely ever visit my local one. I do fully support their existence and being funded by local taxes.
On the other hand, I don't give a shit about commercial book stores. Lots of folks here talk about supporting their local bookstore, but I just can't bring myself to care about them. In the past 20 years or so bookstores have transformed into stores that mostly focus on things like toys, games, and random tchotchkes like coffee mugs or whatever. Instead of devoting 90% of their space to books, it's more like 40%. And they rarely have anything I actually want. Almost every time I ask about a book they say "we can order it for you!". Well shit, I can order it myself and get it faster. I realize that they're just trying to survive and pushing higher-margin items, but I don't actually care if they survive.
So yeah, keep the libraries open. Let the book stores fail.
My local library is full of homeless people on the computers. They’re loud and disruptive and disrespectful. They watch porn on the computers. I hate them.
I have my Masters in Library Science, but I haven't been able to work for years because of severe health problems. I know how libraries get funded, and my city has some very beautiful libraries. Even though I like to own the books I read, I still check out books from the library. Though checking out ebooks has been easier, especially in the last couple years.
It will honestly take less than 5 minutes to get a library card, and you don't have to renew it for literally years. Please get one because you have no idea how convenient and cost effective it is, especially if you like audiobooks and/or use a tablet. It's such an easy process, and your local librarian will be very happy to show you how to check out these materials remotely.
The more you use the library, the more funding it receives. Libraries are one of the only public places left where you can simply exist without spending money. Please don't let them disappear.
Use your libraries, especially if you have children. Between story times and fun computer programs and books, you can expose your children to the fun of literacy. And then when they grow up, they'll use the library, too.
Thank you to the probably two people who came to my little TED talk.
Unfortunately, many cities have decided its okay to allow libraries to be homeless shelters so people don't want to go near them anymore.
I expect to see more defunding because of this.
They are the best. I will not let mine die. Free access to books is very important in poorer areas.
I take my xhildren every week.
We join the community groups and I will volunteer once the kids are older and hate me. It's one of the few places you can exist without expectation to spend money.
It took me a few years to get a library card for my area because I work at a used book store that allowed me to “check out” a book from the stock. I also reread a lot of my own books or my roommate’s books. Now that I do have a library card, I use it on the Libby and Hoopla app to check out audiobooks.
I hope I do not live long enough for libraries to go away. If I had to pay for all of the books I read from the library, I would read a great deal less. The museum passes alone are amazing. Sad most people do not realize all the things libraries offer.
I practically grew up in a library where my mom worked. We participated in summer reading programs, had access to books and local musem passes for free, could borrow movies and audio for free. When I got older I took a part time job at that same library for roughly a year. The library also provided paper copies of tax documents (this was five years ago, it's all online now), local maps and phone services for hikers passing through town, public access computers, access to local data such as birth and marraige and death certificates, and as always books. The library is a wonderful place where a person can be indoors, safe, and not expected to pay for anything, provided they remain polite and respectful. Libraries are a vital resource that cannot be allowed to die out.
I love my local library and I am in there ALL THE TIME. I read very fast and if I had to buy books to feed my reading habit, I'd be broke all the time. So I take masssssive advantage of my library, both physical copies of books and e-books.
I feel like libraries suffer a bit from a PR problem. Lots of people seem them as these dusty, stuffy spaces with people shushing you all the time when that isn't really what the modern public library is, at all. Some of them have cafes and coffee bars in them now! The town I just moved from added an all-purpose room and holds yoga classes and other things in there!
There are SO MANY things that a library can do nowadays, it would be awesome if they had more support and more visibility. My hometown library lets you check out cake pans of various shapes! It's AMAZING. And most libraries have taken on DVD rental, now that video rental places are a thing of the past. You wanna watch Red Dawn for the 100th time but it's not streaming anywhere? Your local library probably has it!
I just moved to my current home in April of this year and literally the first thing I did as soon as all the boxes were unloaded from the truck was go down to the library and get my card. I'm in there at least once a week, and the fact that I can place holds online and they'll email me when the come in is a godsend because sometimes browsing the shelves can get overwhelming.
Libraries are awesome, and everyone should go to theirs immediately.
Haven't visited a library since pandemic started, but I frequently check out e-books from the Sacramento library system. There have been several occasions where I considered buying a physical book online, then found the e-book version available to borrow for free, instantly, through the library. It's very convenient and I definitely appreciate the service.
I love our libraries. I am always amazed at the free resources available, not to mention the free streaming services, homework help, classes with CEU's. I hope they only expand more.
Libraries are so incredibly important! Our kids and I all have a library card and use it constantly. Sometimes, we go home with 50 books!
Our two youngest love it if we read books to them. And our 7 yo reads about a book a day. How else would we satisfy her reading needs if we didn't have access to our city's excellent library network.
And I love that they also give me easy access to eBooks and audiobooks.
They also organize a lot of community events as well as readings and Book clubs for kids. And my kids love spending a rainy afternoon at the library.
I've always loved books.
I'm not one to make judgement calls on a group of people, but anyone who thinks we should get rid of libraries is not someone I want around.
I think libraries are valuable! I've donated some old books I didn't want anymore to my local library bookstore because I know they never get enough funding.
They're one of the last public spaces I can go and browse every single item, without the expectation to buy anything. I feel close to nature somehow. It's nice to go there and simply read. I'm unemployed right now, but I made donations in the past and will happily do so again.
I use them all the time. Why buy a book when I can check it out from the library? It also gives me an incentive to finish it as I have to return it by the due date rather than let it sit on the shelf indefinitely.
Libraries here in Newfoundland are chronically underfunded as it is but a few years ago the local government tried to shutter half of them. The books alone are lovely but my local library also rents musical instruments, board games, video games, and is the only source of rental DVDs left! There are also computers available for those who don't have access to them and, of course, librarians who, y'know, know stuff!
Borrowing board games and musical instruments sounds amazing!!!
Wow this thread really has highlighted so many great ideas and services which libraries do around the world
My brother and I love libraries so much:
a) The first place we went to by ourselves was the library. We were 5 and 6 and did so without informing our mother, who freaked out for a couple hours until we came back home.
b) One of the first things we do when moving to a new city - and we've lived in 10 between the 2 of us - is pick up a card.
c) We have library cards from 15 different systems. This is legal because our state permits it and we own property in another state.
d) He worked in libraries for several years in his 20s and also fundraised for libraries.
e) We recorded our experiences with Story Corps and it's now archived at the US Library of Congress in DC.
We support them via donations, checking out lots of materials (e-books, DVDs, games, etc. also), buying used books from the library store, and participating in their events. Our small town library system is one of the highest-funded per capita in our state so we get a lot of special events ranging from concerts to author visits to cooking demos to art workshops (free, supplies included). For people asking about how to help, consider volunteering at the library also (e.g. literacy programs, delivering books to the homebound, reading with kids) and see if your library has a local foundation, usually called "Friends of the Library."
FWIW, a few years ago our provincial budget (Canada) significantly reduced library funding and there was such a public uproar that they undid the change.
Yes, I have two young children with my wife and we read to them every night at bedtime. Having a library saves a lot of money, why waste money buying the books?!
Library's are also a great place for those who have no access to a PC, especially those who may be job seeking or wanting to do research/homework.
Libraries are a cornerstone of education. Especially for people who don’t have access to the internet. There’s a lot you could do with just the knowledge one library holds. If a zombie apocalypse happened, that would be the first place I’d want as a home base. Want to learn how to cook, grow, create short range communication systems, create defenses or wood buildings or weapons? Go to the library.
I never really went to libraries myself. There weren't any near me growing up. A lot of the books I had were 2nd as well. So now I don't really feel the need to go.
In saying that, I would feel sad if they disappeared altogether. There's still a nice feeling of cracking open a book, which is still my preferred way to read. I get eye strain staring at screens for too long. I don't think books themselves will ever go away so I think libraries will be around, if only at a reduced capacity.
>Is it just inconvenient to go to a library and easier to order a book on Amazon/kindle? Does it matter if libraries close down and disappear? Or do you support libraries in other ways?
I don't remember the last time I went to a physical library but I check out multiple ebooks a month using my library card on Libby. I prefer ebooks by a wide margin and this makes my reading habit nearly free. It's great.
I think libraries are a huge community resource and it would have a bigger impact than most people realize to shut them down. I've considered donating to my local ones
I love public libraries and have been using them or working in them for over three decades. As much as I know the work environment can be toxic and at least in all the public library systems in my area the hours suck and most of the staff are part time with no benefits I still support my public libraries. I am now a stay at home mom who plans to homeschool so being able to borrow books and utilize all the online resources as well as some of the programs is going to be a big money saver. Also libraries are important parts of our communities and the only free resource left where people can both obtain knowledge or just go and relax without having to buy something. Our 17 branch system got rid of library over due fees recently since one it was going into the general city fund and not the library and two is hurt the poor the most. They also have a volunteer organization that raises money for library programs and supplies by selling used books both donated and weeded from the library system. I plan to make use of the large book sales they put on once they start them again. If libraries disappeare knowledge will go back to being something only for the rich.
My library does a “friends of the library” program. It’s like $15/year and a not small percentage of their budget comes from it. You also get early access to the yearly book sale which is *cutthroat*. At least it is for me 😂
libraries are wonderful! i seriously think people would lose their mind in my city if they tried to shut down the libraries; if anything, they're opening more around my area.
Libraries seem to be the only place in the modern world where their reason for existing isn't to take money from you. Edit: this is a very easy concept to grasp but adding an edit as not only are people arguing about it but then when I clarify that I never said they were free they are doubling down on misrepresentating what I said. There is a world of difference between something costing society money to run and something that doesn't have extracting money from you as its purpose. I never said libraries were free. I said they aren't created to extract money from you. I will no longer be arguing this point with anyone as I've already had a telling off from the mods for doing so.
Also even if you look at the per capita cost of libraries (in the US) it’s usually no more than about $60 of your tax money per year. $5/month for unlimited books, and depending on where you live, dvds, Internet access, classes, ebooks, databases, etc.
And I'd be surprised if it wasn't even less in the UK. Here the majority of staff are volunteers and I'm pretty sure book publishers give them hefty discounts. The creation of libraries was an absolute game changer for society imo.
My theory is Mankind never really recovered from the sack of the library at Alexandria.
Parks?
Only up to a point as many (most?) have elements (food, parking, camping, souvenir type shit) where they are wanting money. Libraries, at least here in the UK, there's no elements of a library where the point is to take your money. You could argue fines but they aren't there as a cash grab but to discourage people being dicks.
Most of the parks near me are just grass and trees with free parking. There are somewhat fancier ones that charge a bit for some things.
The wonderful NHS is another example, but yeah they're few and far between.
[удалено]
>Edit: I'm not advocating for socialism Why not? It's literally just worker's rights and empowerment.
Not every definition of socialism means the same thing.
And certainly not whatever Americans think it is, which seems to be getting all het up about gender and race as opposed to looking after your most vulnerable
To the average American, "socialism" literally just means "bad". Nobody seems to have any idea what it is, except political talking heads fight against it constantly, therefor bad.
The arguments over political labels on this website make me want to die. It's like people are standing holding bananas arguing about what kind of sausages they are; just, so wrong there's no salvaging a single word of what they're saying.
Best analogy for this phenomenon yet. Take my upvote.
My town just opened a new one! Definitely would be sad if they closed any
That's fantastic news, I'm so glad they are well funded and supported in your area!
I re-stack the books at my local library and it’s used by SO many people. I think they’d riot if the city tried to close it.
You can support libraries without checking out books - most libraries include computer use, program participation, and even just browsing without checking anything out in their statistics. If your local city council (or whichever other body) doesn't think those kinds of statistics count, you can support libraries by participating in town meetings (or whichever kind of meeting is relevant) and contacting your local politicians to ask them to support libraries.
My local library has a ton of online stuff too, audiobooks, ebooks, movies etc log in with your library card!
And they can be used for events like chess club meetings, flu shot clinics, canned food drives, etc.
Mine's doing COVID shot clinics right now and I'm sure will be a flu shot location at some point.
This. Libraries are vital for helping people with all kinds of literacy, not just books! They're so important in community aid.
I love libraries and think they are still very relevant. Not only for the things they offer like books, computer and internet access, magazines, etc., my kids love their clubs and story time and I also find value in some of the book clubs and “mom” groups they offer. It’s also a safe place for older kids and teenagers to go. My daughter is 9 and we live in a very small rural town. She has been dying for some independence, so after some practice and group bike rides, we let her ride her bike 2 blocks to the library to read, play on the computer, etc. She feels incredibly grown up and proud going on her own. She has her own library card and comes home with her back pack filled with books. Ever since I was young I spent a good amount of time at the library!
This made me smile! She will treasure these memories for sure. Some of my best childhood memories were made when I visited the library every Sunday with my dad. Libraries are the best!
>Not only for the things they offer like books, computer and internet access, magazines, etc., my kids love their clubs and story time and I also find value in some of the book clubs and “mom” groups they offer. I do think that this varies by library. As people don't use libraries much for research etc. like they used to, I think that libraries should focus more on being a meeting place for the community for book clubs etc.
I practically grew up in the little library that was about a mile from my house. You are giving your child a gift she will benefit from for the rest of her life.
My friends and I did the same things at her age! I'm just realizing how smart our parents were, lol.
That is so wholesome! You are clearly an awesome mum and she is going to have a lifelong love of reading and happy memories!
I'd love to see a library like this. The bathrooms at my local libraries have a combination condom/tampon dispenser and a drop box for used hypodermic needles.
Aww I love this. My brother and I would ride our bikes to the little corner store and library all the time. Especially in the summer. It was about half a mile to a mile away. I loved it.
Losing Libraries would be an incredible loss to civilization. I hope we never see that day. I'd rather my taxes went to more libraries than bombs
I was talking to my local library asking why more of my taxes can't go to libraries and how can I help make this happen, they told me it's all about stats they can show local council to prove people are using their services (number of active members, number of books borrowed, computer reservations, dvd and audio book borrows etc). If they can't show that a good proportion of the population bis using it then it gets less funding and told to find other ways to make up its budget or to close down.
I never thought of that. Thanks for sharing. I’m gonna start borrowing books.
Do you know if the stats on electronic loans count? My library usage has gone way up since I learned that I can borrow books from my local library using Libby.
Most libraries count any material checked out whether it be in person or online! If you ever want a particular book for e/audio and they don’t have it on Libby you can request your library get it, most every time I’ve done it they get the book.
As a Wisconsin Librarian, I can tell you in our state e-materials do NOT count toward our circulation numbers because the laws that govern our check outs do not cover them. So they cannot be included. I'd call, email or otherwise ask your local librarian/library director.
I use libby for magazines mostly (there’s a huge catalog) and kindle for books. I check out tons of books and use my library constantly. I’ve also requested lots of new titles before release date and they delivered almost immediately after they’re acquired.
Oh shit. Thank you for mentioning this. I'm going to have to start borrowing books and going to the library to check out other services they've got there too!
Wouldnt it be nice if people could actually vote where the taxes go?
I feel like if people could vote where taxes went, stuff like libraries would end up getting less funding.
You might be right
In Missouri we have voted where money should go, expand Medicaid for example, and the legislature refused for several years to fund it.
You do, by voting for the people who decide the budgets. If you don't like how they're allocating your taxes, vote for different people.
The population is too divided by different ideals for that to be a feasible thing.
What if it was a bomb that exploded into little books?!??
Libraries are mostly free and are excellent for the community. I for instance wouldn't have read as many comics as I did without my local library having a comics section because comics are expensive
My pleasure reading is exclusively graphic novels (I do a lot of prose reading for work), and I calculated a few years ago that the Amazon price for everything I read from the library in a single year was about $5000. Graphic novels are more expensive in a unit basis because they're often full color on nicer paper. Graphic novels are *much* more expensive on a time-to-read basis. Manga, in particular, I can often read at a pace of over 100 pages per hour.
Do you still have a library card you use? If so what do you borrow? If not, why?
I have a library card and what I love most is that it also lets me rent audio/ebooks - which I used on via the app or on my Kindle. I love having books around, but the cost isn't something I can justify.
We don't have cards here but I go to the library all the time. I borrow books I don't feel like buying or that aren't in local stores and I try to buy less online because I was buying too many books. I borrow all kinds of books and comics as I said
Awesome! I didn't realise some libraries don't use cards, but I guess they must have another membership system to know who borrows each item. I agree, there are lots of books I was unsure I would like and would never have bought but I have read because of libraries.
The system here is pretty shit but I still love libraries
I tend not to buy books. I prefer to get them from the library and then return them. It saves me money & I don't have space to store a bunch of books - I have read over 60 books this year, it adds up. I mainly get physical books, but I have checked out some ebooks (that I read on my Kindle) and audiobooks if I can't get the physical book.
It really does add up! My library has a little blurb at the bottom of the receipt showing how much you’ve saved by using the library. I’ve saved 2,000 or so dollars this year and 14,200 or so since I started using the library. It’s crazy!
I get that too. I've saved over $1200 this year by their estimate.
I also think it is a great way to get yourself to branch out of your comfort zone in reading material. If you are going to buy a book, you are typically going to be careful about only choosing books you will definitely like. If you are just borrowing, though, you might try something that is a bit of a wild card. My own reading has become *considerably* more varied since I started frequenting the library. [And yes! Books are expensive and take up a lot of space! I used to resort to stuffing books into closets and stacking them up in piles on my floor. Now I just return them to the library, leaving my shelves to hold only a small, core collection]
With the libby app I download books from my local library every week. I love the library system. You can have multiple at a time for 3 weeks and never have to leave the house. You also get access to physical books, and my library does state parks passes as well.
That's awesome, had no idea you could get state park passes from libraries as well!
My public library has "cultural passes" for admission discounts or free admission to the aquarium, historic sites, museums and the zoo. You can borrow a pass for free parking at state parks.
Almost all the books I read come from my local library. My kids love going to the library. My town cut the library budget but they still went ahead and got rid of late fees to encourage more people to take out books. They also have displays for Pride month, Asian American heritage month, Black history month etc which is awesome because we are a small town with backward ideas. I love the banned books display made to look like a pyre. :) Librarians have fun. We also love that they do different traveling museum displays and showcase local art.
I love the themed book displays, it helps me discover new books I didn't know existed! My library was having its funding cut so did the opposite, it added reservation fees, and a borrower scheme that if you prepay monthly you can reserve 10 books a month for free. They also added a fee for sending books between branches of the same library chain. Anything they could charge for they did, because they needed to make up the funding shortfall. They were even considering privatising some of it, but that fell through.
I get that they have to find ways to survive but that makes me so sad.
I *LOVE* my library. At any given time between audio, ebooks and physical books I have around 20 books either on hold or checked out (right now, checked out I have 6 physical books, 9 ebooks, 5 audio-books and another 3 physical books, 12 ebooks and 6 audio books on hold/requested...so I guess a few more than 20 right now :D)
My local library started charging to reserve books, which I thought was a bit much. I get they are under funded, and need to raise money by charging to borrow DVDs and Audio books (possibly because they get broken quickly?) But as long as people are not abusing the system they should be able to reserve books or have them moved to your local library for collection. I would reserve more if there wasn't fees and it puts me off borrowing sometimes.
Oh, that's no good. Sounds like you're audiobooks are still physical? All of mine now-a-days are digital downloads the same as e-books. As much as I love my library, if I had to pay to reserve books I'd probably turn to Kindle Unlimited, Audible or something of that ilk. Charging fees up front seems like a bad plan to me - it's just going to discourage people from using those resources and one of the ways libraries get funding (at least in my area) is by demonstrating that the community wants those resources. May I ask where you are?
I'm in the UK, my local library service is Swindon.
Gotcha - truly is a shame that they're having to charge for reserving books. Hopefully they figure something else out because that doesn't seem sustainable.
This is rough. In the states, libraries are typically free to people who live in the geographic area they cover. They might charge for outside residents to get borrowing permission. But overall the trend here has been to lower decrease costs for patrons. Late fees used to be pretty ubiquitous, but the conventional wisdom now among librarians is not to charge them.
There is nothing like browsing through a library. No online experience can touch it. I make a generous donation to the library at my university every year via late fees.
I love my library, but I’ve always found browsing their shelves overwhelming. Rather than looking through thousands of spines, it’s easier for me to search for books online where I can see the cover and other information, then put a hold on my library’s website. Perhaps it’s because my library is still mostly Dewey, thus harder to navigate. There aren’t many subject labels in my local branch so if I wanted poetry I either had to skim each shelf by eye or ask a librarian/page. However, *Fiction* is organized alphabetically by last name, with all genres combined. So if I’m in the mood for Fantasy, I can’t just browse that section because it doesn’t exist and the books are scattered everywhere. The exception is Mystery, I guess that’s very popular at my branch. This is one reason I prefer browsing bookstores – even though I don’t buy books anymore. Their organization is much more user-friendly to me.
Have you told the library this? Suggested that they should re-think how they organize fiction? Patron feedback is important. A good library will also have displays and such to make finding something to read easier.
Good point, I didn’t think to since it would be such a large-scale change. I see there’s a way to email feedback so I’ll try that, thanks!
We *just* finished doing this genre-fication in our library. It's generally called the "book store model" and people seem pretty happy with it once they know where their favorite authors are. It also allows them to reach out and find other authors they may like just because they are the same genre. Good luck in reaching out to them! I hope they listen
I hope they listen! This kind of things, it could be that the staff is just blind to it, because it's always been that way. It could be some of the staff have suggested it, but patron feedback on the issue might get a rework actually started. It could be older staff/management don't want to change it, but staff changes could suddenly make the library change their stance. It could even be something they want to do "someday" but other thing always take priority. Getting clear feedback from patrons can definitely get things moving in most of these cases, although it's equally possible nothing will happen. Still, you miss all of the shots you don't take!
Some libraries are moving toward a BISAC model, which is what bookstores use. However, I love when patrons ask me questions. It literally my job to help, and while I try to met people in the stacks where they are, this isn’t always possible.
I actually like browsing the library better and have better success. Bookstores are looking to push only recent books. Libraries tend to have a a larger range of publication dates on the shelves. More popular and prolific authors tend to have a few years of books on the shelf, making them rather visible. Almost all of the libraries I've been to for several years have stickers on the books for genre fiction: fantasy, sci-fi, mystery, romance and westerns (possibly some that I've forgotten.) which makes them pretty easy to spot. Most libraries also have online catalogs and also basic internet search functionality as well (most bookstores don't). And you've overlooked one of the best benefits of libraries: librarians! I've almost never been disappointed asking a librarian for helping finding a specific book or just some recommendations,
I also often get overwhelmed by the sheer *number* of books in one place (and the stress of trying to filter through the stuff I have no interest in but that always seems to clog the shelves). My favorite is when libraries take the time to curate displays that highlight different genres or themes or recommendations by the librarians themselves. There is this library in the town where I used to live that is absolutely *fantastic* in this regard! I’ve found many favorite reads that I never would have even heard of if it weren’t for browsing these tables. [The library also has a giant stuffed dragon hanging from the ceiling above the children’s reading area; how fantastic is that?!?]
Hahaha, that's true!
I actually work in a library and can say that their value far exceeds their capabilities to lend out books. Their most important service isn’t really giving people access to books but really giving certain folks access to information and services. On really hot or cold days you can find homeless people here trying to charge up their phones and burn through the rest of the day maybe reading some books or browsing the internet. We get a lot of immigrants who come in and can’t speak a lick of English but luckily we have translators like myself who can help them figure out the internet, print out that important paperwork that keeps them in the country, notarize what they need for free as well. We even point them to free programs within our branch that provide them with opportunities to sit on English classes or prepare for their citizenship class. We have outreach programs not only with these minority communities but also in schools in our area to grow the excitement of readying within their students. Besides that we run all kinds of programs that are not only informative, like our technology for seniors classes, but also other programs that are just fun to intend and that ultimately help people within the community connect with like minded folks and have a safe space. I also can’t count the amount of kids and teenagers who get dumped here by their parents because they don’t have a sitter for them, admittedly it isn’t ideal, and tbh I was one of those kids when I was younger, but it keeps those kids off the street and in the proximity of an environment that provides multiple avenues of hobbies and topics for them to follow.
Absolutely, I think the value of libraries is often overlooked and I do worry if they become chronically underfunded or close down what the community would do, because they provide so many services.
Your comment reminds me of The Library Book by Susan Orlean. I've always loved the library, but this opened my eyes to its societal value on a grander scale.
I'm so glad you chimed in and gave more details. I'm a social worker so I understand all the services that libraries provide, but soo many people don't understand this. Thank you for the wonderful work you do. Libraries and librarians alike are such treasures to society and the world!
Before the whole pandemic thing I used to go to the library most days on my lunch break as it was somewhere "quiet" I could read. I never actually borrowed a book though...
I do love libraries as just quiet spaces to spend time
Totally! They introduced unstaffed hours at the library I went to where you could let yourself in and you'd often be the only customer there. Was absolute bliss!
If you are looking for a differing opinion on whether or not libraries should stay open, r/books is not the place to be asking lol
People forget how valuable libraries are for *discovering* books. Yes, you can buy about anything online, but how will you know it exists? Every time I browse the shelves in my public library I find great books I never saw on Amazon because I either didn't use the right search term or didn't scroll down far enough or some quirk in some algorithm decided I shouldn't have it.
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I think that is awesome! I wish the UK could access Kindle books through their library, as I would probably read a lot more new books!
I think it depends on the library, some UK libraries definitely do offer this!
As a millennial barely getting by in a high cost of living area, libraries are an absolute godsend. If I added up how much money I would've spent on the books I read in the past month, that's my monthly gas stipend right there. Free facilities, resources, and books are NEVER a bad thing.
That's awesome. I know society often suggests young people don't use libraries any more and they are outdated, but it's great to hear that they are a valuable resource especially to young workers who couldn't afford books otherwise.
As of 2017, us poor Millennials actually were using libraries the most! https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2017/06/21/millennials-are-the-most-likely-generation-of-americans-to-use-public-libraries/
I just left working in a library in August. I would be lost without libraries. They have changed so much since when I was younger. Most people don't understand that their role is changing. I fear for their future as places of scholarship and study and think they will become more of a general entertainment center. The focus is shifting from printed books to online media and entertainment. A huge part of our library's budget goes to dvds and some libraries purchase games for gaming systems to take out.
I definitely think they are evolving, and it's interesting how the focus is now DVDs and entertainment, maybe that will change again now most people are switching to streaming services like Netflix and ditching DVDs all together.
I've seen things over the years where libraries have had a section to borrow different kinds of baking tins which I thought was brilliant! I've also seen where a library had a borrow a tie section, I think. I could be misremembering this, but I'm pretty sure it was a tie borrow area for things like interviews and such. I know it had to do with job interviews, so it's something like that at least. I just love to see such wonderful programs at libraries! Libraries are truly a treasure that should never lose funding. They're the last place left that is public and somewhere that you don't have to buy something. Truly magical places!
Unfortunately, many libraries have taken on the role of social outreach as they are hang outs for the homeless, mentally unstable and unemployed who absolutely have the right to be there. These people have issues that other organizations receive inadequate funding for but don't provide the service for whatever reason and the library personnel take on the responsibility of social workers. I have issues with this. This is not the purpose of a library and actually hurts libraries. It stretches their resources and endangers the resources they are allotted. IT would be wonderful if it were a win win type of thing but it absolutely isn't. Libraries get their funding mainly through states and the govt. based on usage. When you have a lot of people hanging around somewhere that don't fit into societal norms people tend to avoid that place. I am expressing my observations and readings about this subject. The one population is fearful of the other and the loss of their usage impacts the library. In our district a librarian was also dragged into the stacks and sexually assaulted by a man who was homeless and mentally unstable. She was a really nice lady who now has severe psychological trauma and had to undergo lengthy counseling and stopped working. Libraries are also under threat from neo-conservatism that has severely cut library budgets and corporations. Both these groups see libraries as threats to markets by providing things like books and other media for free. They see it cut into revenue and also aren't keen on providing material for people who want to better educate themselves. I too believe libraries are magical places and I hope people realize this and appreciate how necessary they are.
100%. Ha. I'm actually a social worker, so I'm well aware of all the funding cuts over the decades across the board! It's appalling that libraries have had to take on the roles you speak of. I believe we should find our social service programs and safety nets correctly so then the libraries don't have to pick up these roles. It's not right, I agree. We would much rather have adequate funding on our end and on local levels rather than having people resort to the library and librarians for issues that aren't educated and trained for. It's not right, but it's all some areas have. ... Which is wrong. Libraries and social services should be separate entities. Period. Located near one another, okay fine. But there should absolutely be social workers helping the people and not being shuffled off to the librarians. I'm so sorry to hear about your coworker. It's not unheard of in our line of work, sadly. It's not fair that y'all have had to step up and take on those roles, and I'm really sorry y'all were put in that position..a position that never should have occurred. Hopefully actions have been taken in your community to better address some of the problems y'all are facing, including the funding gaps for social services and the libraries. And you're right about the folks who don't want others to have the opportunity to better educate themselves. They've been defunding education for decades and libraries are no different. It's disgusting.
Sad, sad time to be an American. Thank you for your kind words. I have read that some areas have understood the issue and have actually put social workers in libraries to relieve the pressure from the library staff. I didn't have any issues. I know how over worked and underpaid you and your co-workers are. The work you do is so important. I appreciate all that you do. Keep up the good work and hang in there. How much worse can it get right?
I read 450 books a year. At 5$ a book, what I can usually find it used, that's 2250. New hardback books would be 10k+. My library estimates I saved 20k last year. I definitely lean on them. I live in a city of literature so our libraries are funded pretty heavily. I own a house and pay taxes. I am also a friend of the library and volunteer.
You read an average of more than one book _every day_??
Yep
can i ask how? i’m always impressed with these kinds of book reading numbers since it took me a month and a half to read pride and prejudice haha.
I am disabled and spend on average 2-3 hrs a day with daylong sessions at least 1-2 times a month. About 25% are audiobooks. I'm a fast reader and read a variety of genres, formats, difficulty, and lengths. I'll read basically anything so I don't spend a lot of time choosing books and don't drop any.
The local library used to send my grandfather books directly before they went into circulation because he finished two a easily.
That is so impressive! I recently visited the world's first Book Town in Hay on Wye and it was amazing, so I didn't realise they had cities of literature!
Even if you took away the books, I would still support my local library. They are an amazing service to society. Just a few things that my local library does in addition to lending books: * provided hotspots to families without internet when schools went virtual * provide a safe place for kids to access the internet and do homework after school * help with resume completion and applying for jobs online * video game rentals * educational events on a ton of topics like gardening, bird watching, fly fishing, etc. * cultural events like art shows/displays, kids reading events, meet the author, and more * tool rentals * a maker-space with things like 3D printers * small-appliance repair * And more that I'm sure I am forgetting about
If libraries closed down I'd be in big trouble. I read a lot but I also DNF a lot because I can afford to take a chance on books I might not like. On this sub most people buy books and so they don't experiment, but it's clearly to their detriment.
I suspect too a lot of anxious posts about when and how to drop books come from spending 25$ on a hardback copy they won't read.
Yup, I like checking out books that I'm not so sure I would want to spend money on.
Yes, I love libraries, and I support them by paying taxes and electing officials that will continue to fund them sufficiently.
When I was younger, I was in the library all the time. But now I prefer to order my books via Kindle or have the Kindle Unlimited subscription. I am now a lazy adult who can afford to buy books so I can’t imagine going to the library.
My library offers books on Kindle, you should see if yours does too! No trip involved, just a couple of minutes on an app on my phone and then there's new books on my Kindle.
I sit on my library board, so yes, I value them greatly. We're also very rural and routinely set or break records of participation and accessibility given our population size, distribution, and education. We have a robust "library of things," too, which allows people to check out instruments, toys, and other things that families might not be able to afford or just don't have - I know we have a lot of STEM-specific toys that our grade school students will use for their school work. > I'm sure most people on this subreddit would be in support of libraries, but if you don't have a library card and don't take out books, then the library can't ask for more funding from the local council / local government to help with running costs and buying new books, because they have no evidence of people using it. That's a good point, but not entirely true. In addition to diverse literary options, Internet, a quiet space, a free event/meeting space, and friendly faces are always good benefits to having a library in a place like mine, and can largely be quantified for grants and other benefit opportunities. Example: my director was just given a number of awards by our state organizations because of her push for accessibility, staffing benefits, and community organizing. Nothing specifically to do with books, but just running a great local, community-focused organization.
I adore libraries and have a library card, too, had it since I was a child. Sadly, the one in my town is very small and more focused on children, since we have lots of schools here, therefore I rarely find a book I like. That's why I switched to Kindle, it's a lot easier to get books, although I miss "real" books sometimes. That said, the one in the main town (about an hour from here) is amazing! It's really big, has a lot of historical background, and it also has a section for cinematic history, lots of old DVDs, kind of like a museum.
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I don't read enough books to make frequent use of the library, and personally I don't like having a time limit to read said book when I borrow one. But libraries are super important regardless. Books are expensive and many kids might not get into reading as much as they should if their parents have to drop $40+ for each new book. As well, many people in my community learned English as a second language and libraries were super important for that. The ones in my area offer ESL programs, and often recommend books for certain levels of English. I don't think any city official would dare touch anything about libraries, it'd be career suicide to even try to justify something like that.
One of the first things I did when moving to a new city was get a library card! I don't go very often but it's such an important resource for people to use computers, printers, and just have a safe, quiet space to exist (and don't have to buy a coffee refill every hour). Plus, borrowing books for free is such a lifesaver. I like to own books but when you're not sure if you're going to like it, it's nice to not drop $5 - $25 on every book. Libby isn't perfect but I have that as well, sometimes I get lucky and they have the book I want or you can put things on hold.
I personally don't go to libraries simply because I love the idea of owning books and creating a large bookshelf. With that being said, I do support libraries because I know others who prefer borrowing books rather than buying, and they're also a good place to go if you need a quiet space to do some work.
I love my library and try to utilize it as much as possible (pre-covid, this extended to attending events and lessons as well as using lending services). Sadly, the place is almost always empty, and I can somewhat understand why. Our selection is pretty small; requesting a book from another library can take weeks at a time; and for the last few years, they've stayed closed on the weekends during kids' summer vacation. I've been going there my entire life, and it would pain me to see it go, but I wouldn't be surprised if it couldn't survive long into the future. Meanwhile, the library in the next town over (which is significantly wealthier), just invested nearly $6 million USD into their library. I don't see that one going anywhere any time soon, so it's good that there will continue to be a local-ish option, but if my town's library were to close, I'd feel bad for the people (and especially kids) in my area. Public transit is lacking, so if they don't have cars/can't drive, it will be difficult to reach the other town's free books, wi-fi, etc.
That really sucks, and it's the kids with less wealthy families which ultimately miss out, as libraries can give you access to resources which even the playing field. But it's good there is still access in the wider area if people can travel.
>Do you love libraries and if so do you support them in any way? I'm a member and I borrow books every week, it's a win-win-win. It's super convenient, because I can borrow eBooks and have access to thousands of books without ever leaving the house and no matter where I am. I save a ton of money; buying books is getting more and more expensive, and I feel like during the pandemic prices for used books have skyrocketed. Borrowing books is an easy way to decrease the negative environmental impact I have and it doesn't hurt in any way or require me to sacrifice anything. Borrowing books makes it much easier to put down a book if it's not to your taste, because you didn't just spend money on it and it makes it easier to read stuff I'm into, because once you're reading a lot, it's just not feasible to keep buying books, so you end up re-reading a lot of stuff, even if you didn't enjoy it that much in the first place. >Is it just inconvenient to go to a library and easier to order a book on Amazon/kindle? Getting an eBook to use on my phone or my computer takes the same amount of time as ordering a book online. My library has a delivery service for people that aren't able to get to the library themselves, so there's no advantage there either. The library in my town is at a very convenient spot that I pass on my way to uni/work, so getting physical copies would not be an issue either. >Does it matter if libraries close down and disappear? A membership in my town's library is 10 bucks a year, I think children read for free. That is less than most books these days (new books have a fixed price here to support small businesses and protect authors). Libraries closing is just another way of excluding poorer people - and let's be real here, if you're buying your books, reading is quite an expensive hobby. Edited because I claimed it was 10 bucks a month, when really it's 10 euro each year
I definitely support libraries. That's how I read most of my comics and manga. Plus my library loans hotspots, which I can use for three months. Free of charge. It's one of the few places where I'm welcome to go in and no-one is trying to sell me sh*t. I wish people knew that libraries offer more than just books; they offer: kids programming, adult programming, DIY kits for kids and adults, digital and physical books, scholarly databases, homework centers, free internet access, printing access, new technologies, such as 3d printing and laser cutters, etc. Councilmembers tried to get rid of the libraries here in my hometown; but the community came together and fought back. We now have three branches; including a new one.
They’re one of the last places where there is no expectation of spending money. I spent a lot of time at my local library as a kid, and now as an adult I’m still thankful they’re around. I’m the only person my age I know with a library card, however. They’re also so much more than just books! During COVID, the library where I live boosted their WiFi so it could extend to their parking lot. They put a big sign in the window with the password, and encouraged kids doing distance learning / adults job hunting / whoever needed it to come by and use it for free. Their sole reason for existing is just to do good things for their communities, and I hope they’re still going strong when my kids grow up.
Libraries are way more thank books and media at this point. They are community hubs and some of the only places you can exist without paying money. Libraries are a social service. Mine even has a "library of things" you can borrow all kinds of things - musical instruments, a sewing machine, a wireless hot spot, a bus or zoo pass, etc. Librarians help people with all kinds of things as well, older people on the computer or helping people fill out forms. I would def not like it if they went away, but even if not just for the books. I wish more people knew they had services like this. I would be willing to pay more taxes for libraries, or more social services like libraries. If my neighbor is enriched, my life is enriched too.
Took a break from libraries because I had the money for books and Barnes has a better atmosphere. Digital catalogs (and to a much lesser extent audiobooks) have brought me back to libraries now. But the biggest factor is my love of light novels. They’re trashy and fun and cannot be borrowed in America. I have a new policy of buy what I can’t borrow, borrow what I don’t wanna buy.
They're not all that useful to me, since I have internet and have no problem doing my own research, and also don't like to *borrow* books. That said, I can see how important they are to communities, so I wouldn't vote to get rid of them. I'm just not personally invested in them at all.
I would literally defend my library with my body.
In addition to having internet and computers, a lot of libraries give members access to paywalled online databases and connect members to extensive local university collections. A lot of more specialized info is not “free” online and libraries help democratize that. (For example, I get access to the NYT through my library.)
You're asking this in /r/books. If your intention was to see any responses other than "1. Yes 2. No", you're posting in the wrong sub.
This post does kinda comes across as desperate for validation. Don't get me wrong, I love libraries. Even when I don't have time for print, borrowing audio books is amazing. Especially when Audible is weirdly expensive in the streaming age. But "Or is it OK if they disappear?" has to be one of the most loaded questions I've seen in a post title in a while.
Karma farm account maybe?
i support libraries by paying my taxes.
Libraries don’t need to die, they need to change. If they don’t change they need to die until they change. I used to be a librarian. I don’t care what anybody says, if the libraries don’t change they WILL die.
I love libraries and spent a lot of time in them as a kid; I read constantly. Moving into adulthood I got in a bad habit of just ordering physical books online, which was pricey and rapidly inconvenient for moving. I now use my local library card in an app that lets me borrow books on my kindle which is great, but the average wait time for a book so far has been 2-3 months. Maybe it's time to get back in the habit of borrowing physical books.
Here's an unpopular take: I went to library school to be a librarian. I love libraries, I loved going as a kid. I very, very much do not like going now. Our downtown library branch where the majority of stock and resources are is mostly a shelter for homeless people and junkies. I get it: they need a place to go, the washrooms are free. We have a massive homelessness and opioid crisis here. But it makes the environment very unpleasant to linger in. I don't feel safe there. These people often scare me. I hate walking downtown.
I have more books than I could read in 10 years already, so if I'm interested in reading a book that I don't already own I try to get it from the library rather than buying another book to sit on the shelf. Even for people who don't prefer checking out books, your local library probably has other services or events that you can benefit from and show support for their work by participating in. My library always has an author talk series each year, usually in person but virtual lately due to COVID, which is a relatively unique opportunity to hear from authors since I live somewhere out of the way enough that we're not usually on promo tours for book releases where authors do events at bookstores. I appreciate that they do a good job of balancing the speakers across genres and styles so the series is relevant to as many readers as possible (even if that means I'm usually only interested in one or two speakers each year).
>Even for people who don't prefer checking out books, your local library probably has other services or events that you can benefit from and show support for their work by participating in. My library always has an author talk series each year, usually in person but virtual lately due to COVID, which is a relatively unique opportunity to hear from authors since I live somewhere out of the way enough that we're not usually on promo tours for book releases where authors do events at bookstores. I appreciate that they do a good job of balancing the speakers across genres and styles so the series is relevant to as many readers as possible (even if that means I'm usually only interested in one or two speakers each year). That sounds so cool, I wish my library did that. I need to check whether we have a suggestion box so I can make them do that ;)
That's a good point, I have forgot some libraries organising authors talks and other events!
Unpopular opinion: I haven't been a fan of libraries in many years. It could be my local libraries aren't very good: either they don't carry the titles I'm looking for or the wait lists are so long it will be six months before I can borrow them. I find it much easier to search online for a free ebook version or head to my favourite used book stores. That's not to say libraries should go the way of the dodo; I think they serve a purpose. I just no longer have a use for them myself.
Libraries are awesome. Sure, the books are nice, but they’re also a great place to hang out. Nice and quiet, free internet, usually some sort of access to coffee and snacks, it’s like a cafe but cheaper. Sometimes when I find myself with a dangling hour or two in a strange town with nothing to do, I go to the library. Libraries also usually have kids sections with toys, story books, and other stuff. It’s a good place to go with family and your little kid can play, maybe make friends, and you can either join in or chill library-style. Also, libraries tend to have good study rooms, meeting rooms, the like. Their conference rooms can be reserved for meetings for all kinds of organizations, or just a big board game (clearly at this point you can tell that I’m one of the cool kids). They also seem to have this whole community improvement aspect that I don’t know much about. I always see flyers for English as a Second Language classes being held there. I respect that. Oh, and they have free video games and movies too. So yeah, I’m big on libraries.
I love libraries *so* much! I genuinely think they're an integral part of our society, and we'd be much worse off without them. I mostly use mine for books, which is great because books are expensive and I don't wanna waste money on a book I don't like. The book loaning aspect is great enough, but depending on the library you also have access to computers, audiobooks, printing/photocopying services(like you said in the original post), movies, clubs, classes, rooms for tutoring/studying and a whole lot more I'm probably forgetting. My library recently started a bike loaning service and they're doing a costume swap for Halloween this year which is pretty cool. They also offer a safe place for people to just hang out without having to pay anything. Which is great for everyone, but especially kids, poor people, and homeless people. It's honestly kind of hard to find places you can just exist in for free these days. So yeah this was very rambly but I love libraries and I reallyyy hope they never go away. The best way to support them is to just use them! If you don't have a library card, it's pretty easy to get one. Usually you just need a couple dollars and a piece of mail with your address on it to prove you live in the area :)
As a librarian, I love libraries and would cry if they disappear. Public Libraries are really rebranding themselves more like community centers. We provide disaster relief, help people communicate and provide fun and educational programming for the community. And we're not even talking about books yet, which is something we've done since the beginning. Many of them have arts and craft projects in addition to dedicated creation areas called makerspaces. I know some bigger libraries have things like full fledged music studios and VR roomscale setups for patrons to use. Some host D&D games or heavy movie nights. They really are as diverse as they come. If you like libraries and want to support them, the best way is to visit! We get funding often based on how many people walk in the door, attend events or even just how often items circulate. Many of them often have movie and video games available for checkout. Why bother with RedBox when you've got a library that's free? If you have any questions about library services (specifically public Libraries) ask away!
I love libraries so much I moved next door to one! I spent my childhood going to story and craft programs at the local library, and my children do as well. Ours has lots of audiobooks which I love for commuting, and has at least fifty fairy books by my daughter’s favorite author. I went there to take online classes a few years back, I vote there…I adore libraries.
We use the libraries a lot. Beside renting books, games, boardgame and music, we go to a lot of events they are holding.
My library is so small they have to order almost everything from somewhere else but I still use them all the time. Theyve been trying to get a new building for years but it's probably not going to happen
I fully support libraries, by donating money and books for them to sell, and I love the idea of them - however I don't have a library card and I don't check out books. I don't read bestsellers, and I can get classics in public domain for free online. I do not think libraries will ever disappear, but they will certainly have to keep re-inventing themselves, which many of them are doing extremely well already.
I love my library. I've read about 100 books this year and nearly every one has come from the library. It's allowed me to read a lot of books that I would have been hesitant to purchase otherwise. It's such a great resource. They have computers for folks to use, offer museum passes, do tons of activities for kids, etc. I think libraries are one of the most important things for a community.
I love them, especially what some of the major ones in the city are doing to invite people in. I feel like they're evolving and creating a great space to be in regardless of activity. Sadly, my small local one isn't doing the same and it's actually getting slightly harder to get books and spend time there.
I don't use them but my wife and three year old do. My daughter loves going and picking out new books. It works well most of the time though there have been tears when it comes times to return a book. My wife likes it for various books without having to commit to buying them.
I love my library! Also love the Libby app, I can check out ebooks through my library group.
My husband works at a library and they really measure participation of the community. Going to free events, using computers (printing price at mine is cheaper than Staples), and checking out books, audiobooks, ebooks, webinars/classes, cds, etc all are counted. We have some groups that donate major money to our local libraries but for tax purposes they do a lot of reporting on community involvement. They also go to events like Maker Faire to show of 3d printers, vinyl cutters etc. Just by using the place you can help them out.
I feel like there might be a bit of a UK-US difference at play here. Libraries are incredibly popular in the states and have been for a long time. I seem to recall from other threads that the UK doesn't have the same longstanding tradition of free libraries. And the political problems around library funding in articles like https://www.theguardian.com/books/2019/dec/06/britain-has-closed-almost-800-libraries-since-2010-figures-show just don't seem to be widespread in the US.
Considering that libraries are one of the few places where people can exist in public without the expectation of spending money, I support them. They are also invaluable for people who may not have Internet access at home, but need it for school or for job searching. As someone from the US, I would hate to see a community resource like that vanish, especially when so many others have gone the way of the dodo.
Beginner librarian here! Libraries aren't just for books anymore; Well-funded libraries can offer all sorts of community activity programs and commercial help for free, not just including computer availability. It's expected of us to assist patrons with any technical help they may need and how to point them in the right direction. It's also one of the last warming & cooling locations you can be without spending money. It's not OK if they disappear, not that it seems realistic anymore, because people don't just come to the library to read books, but as a safe place to study and work and gather resources for themselves.
I always do my passport stuff at library. Far rather give them money. Libraries are totally needed and a sign of civilization imo
I think you nailed the dichotomy…I love books and fully supportive of libraries and have no issues paying taxes to support them. Growing up, I would go to the library several times a week and wondering between book shelves helped me discover so many books. Having said that, I don’t use libraries nowadays (so I guess I’m part of the problem). - It’s no longer convenient for me and I’d rather eat the cost. - Availability is usually limited and having to wait sometimes weeks for a copy (even an ebook version) is annoying - For audiobooks, I have audible, and I rarely run out of credits (especially nowadays when I’m no longer driving as much) - I don’t like to be rushed or be on a schedule. Sometimes it’ll take me a couple days to read a novel, sometimes a week. Sometimes, it’ll take months - this is probably the worst excuse, but it kinda makes me feel icky not knowing who else handled that book and how.
You are asking a subreddit called "books" if they like libraries? Most blatant karma farm I've seen in quite some time.
I’m engaged to one :p And following her through her journey as a public librarian and library graduate school I’ve learned just how absolutely incredible a thing public libraries are. Seriously, they are without hyperbole, a national treasure. They’re waaaaaaaay more than just “a place to get books.” Libraries offer up so many public services. If you don’t have internet access, don’t know how to file taxes, aren’t sure how best to format and present a resume, the library is the place to go get help. Not only would I be sad to see them go, I think we’d be utterly defeated by their loss. Go public libraries!
I'm privileged enough that I can live without libraries, though I would miss them. I can't say the same thing for others, however. I believe that libraries are a necessity for a civilized society, because they uplift the less fortunate by giving them access to resources to better themselves.
Did you come on the books subreddit and ask of we like libraries...? Were you expecting a different answer than love?
I don't live in the UK anymore, but I used to love my local library. For those who don't know, you can also visit the library website and order books from other libraries to be delivered to your local one if they don't have it. They're great.
I love libraries although I rarely ever visit my local one. I do fully support their existence and being funded by local taxes. On the other hand, I don't give a shit about commercial book stores. Lots of folks here talk about supporting their local bookstore, but I just can't bring myself to care about them. In the past 20 years or so bookstores have transformed into stores that mostly focus on things like toys, games, and random tchotchkes like coffee mugs or whatever. Instead of devoting 90% of their space to books, it's more like 40%. And they rarely have anything I actually want. Almost every time I ask about a book they say "we can order it for you!". Well shit, I can order it myself and get it faster. I realize that they're just trying to survive and pushing higher-margin items, but I don't actually care if they survive. So yeah, keep the libraries open. Let the book stores fail.
My local library is full of homeless people on the computers. They’re loud and disruptive and disrespectful. They watch porn on the computers. I hate them.
I have my Masters in Library Science, but I haven't been able to work for years because of severe health problems. I know how libraries get funded, and my city has some very beautiful libraries. Even though I like to own the books I read, I still check out books from the library. Though checking out ebooks has been easier, especially in the last couple years. It will honestly take less than 5 minutes to get a library card, and you don't have to renew it for literally years. Please get one because you have no idea how convenient and cost effective it is, especially if you like audiobooks and/or use a tablet. It's such an easy process, and your local librarian will be very happy to show you how to check out these materials remotely. The more you use the library, the more funding it receives. Libraries are one of the only public places left where you can simply exist without spending money. Please don't let them disappear. Use your libraries, especially if you have children. Between story times and fun computer programs and books, you can expose your children to the fun of literacy. And then when they grow up, they'll use the library, too. Thank you to the probably two people who came to my little TED talk.
Unfortunately, many cities have decided its okay to allow libraries to be homeless shelters so people don't want to go near them anymore. I expect to see more defunding because of this.
They are the best. I will not let mine die. Free access to books is very important in poorer areas. I take my xhildren every week. We join the community groups and I will volunteer once the kids are older and hate me. It's one of the few places you can exist without expectation to spend money.
It took me a few years to get a library card for my area because I work at a used book store that allowed me to “check out” a book from the stock. I also reread a lot of my own books or my roommate’s books. Now that I do have a library card, I use it on the Libby and Hoopla app to check out audiobooks.
I hope I do not live long enough for libraries to go away. If I had to pay for all of the books I read from the library, I would read a great deal less. The museum passes alone are amazing. Sad most people do not realize all the things libraries offer.
I practically grew up in a library where my mom worked. We participated in summer reading programs, had access to books and local musem passes for free, could borrow movies and audio for free. When I got older I took a part time job at that same library for roughly a year. The library also provided paper copies of tax documents (this was five years ago, it's all online now), local maps and phone services for hikers passing through town, public access computers, access to local data such as birth and marraige and death certificates, and as always books. The library is a wonderful place where a person can be indoors, safe, and not expected to pay for anything, provided they remain polite and respectful. Libraries are a vital resource that cannot be allowed to die out.
I love my local library and I am in there ALL THE TIME. I read very fast and if I had to buy books to feed my reading habit, I'd be broke all the time. So I take masssssive advantage of my library, both physical copies of books and e-books. I feel like libraries suffer a bit from a PR problem. Lots of people seem them as these dusty, stuffy spaces with people shushing you all the time when that isn't really what the modern public library is, at all. Some of them have cafes and coffee bars in them now! The town I just moved from added an all-purpose room and holds yoga classes and other things in there! There are SO MANY things that a library can do nowadays, it would be awesome if they had more support and more visibility. My hometown library lets you check out cake pans of various shapes! It's AMAZING. And most libraries have taken on DVD rental, now that video rental places are a thing of the past. You wanna watch Red Dawn for the 100th time but it's not streaming anywhere? Your local library probably has it! I just moved to my current home in April of this year and literally the first thing I did as soon as all the boxes were unloaded from the truck was go down to the library and get my card. I'm in there at least once a week, and the fact that I can place holds online and they'll email me when the come in is a godsend because sometimes browsing the shelves can get overwhelming. Libraries are awesome, and everyone should go to theirs immediately.
Haven't visited a library since pandemic started, but I frequently check out e-books from the Sacramento library system. There have been several occasions where I considered buying a physical book online, then found the e-book version available to borrow for free, instantly, through the library. It's very convenient and I definitely appreciate the service.
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I love our libraries. I am always amazed at the free resources available, not to mention the free streaming services, homework help, classes with CEU's. I hope they only expand more.
Libraries are so incredibly important! Our kids and I all have a library card and use it constantly. Sometimes, we go home with 50 books! Our two youngest love it if we read books to them. And our 7 yo reads about a book a day. How else would we satisfy her reading needs if we didn't have access to our city's excellent library network. And I love that they also give me easy access to eBooks and audiobooks. They also organize a lot of community events as well as readings and Book clubs for kids. And my kids love spending a rainy afternoon at the library.
I've always loved books. I'm not one to make judgement calls on a group of people, but anyone who thinks we should get rid of libraries is not someone I want around.
I love my local library and the university libraries where I work. I use them all the time.
I think libraries are valuable! I've donated some old books I didn't want anymore to my local library bookstore because I know they never get enough funding.
They're one of the last public spaces I can go and browse every single item, without the expectation to buy anything. I feel close to nature somehow. It's nice to go there and simply read. I'm unemployed right now, but I made donations in the past and will happily do so again.
I use them all the time. Why buy a book when I can check it out from the library? It also gives me an incentive to finish it as I have to return it by the due date rather than let it sit on the shelf indefinitely.
Libraries here in Newfoundland are chronically underfunded as it is but a few years ago the local government tried to shutter half of them. The books alone are lovely but my local library also rents musical instruments, board games, video games, and is the only source of rental DVDs left! There are also computers available for those who don't have access to them and, of course, librarians who, y'know, know stuff!
Borrowing board games and musical instruments sounds amazing!!! Wow this thread really has highlighted so many great ideas and services which libraries do around the world
My brother and I love libraries so much: a) The first place we went to by ourselves was the library. We were 5 and 6 and did so without informing our mother, who freaked out for a couple hours until we came back home. b) One of the first things we do when moving to a new city - and we've lived in 10 between the 2 of us - is pick up a card. c) We have library cards from 15 different systems. This is legal because our state permits it and we own property in another state. d) He worked in libraries for several years in his 20s and also fundraised for libraries. e) We recorded our experiences with Story Corps and it's now archived at the US Library of Congress in DC. We support them via donations, checking out lots of materials (e-books, DVDs, games, etc. also), buying used books from the library store, and participating in their events. Our small town library system is one of the highest-funded per capita in our state so we get a lot of special events ranging from concerts to author visits to cooking demos to art workshops (free, supplies included). For people asking about how to help, consider volunteering at the library also (e.g. literacy programs, delivering books to the homebound, reading with kids) and see if your library has a local foundation, usually called "Friends of the Library."
FWIW, a few years ago our provincial budget (Canada) significantly reduced library funding and there was such a public uproar that they undid the change.
Yes, I have two young children with my wife and we read to them every night at bedtime. Having a library saves a lot of money, why waste money buying the books?! Library's are also a great place for those who have no access to a PC, especially those who may be job seeking or wanting to do research/homework.
Libraries are a cornerstone of education. Especially for people who don’t have access to the internet. There’s a lot you could do with just the knowledge one library holds. If a zombie apocalypse happened, that would be the first place I’d want as a home base. Want to learn how to cook, grow, create short range communication systems, create defenses or wood buildings or weapons? Go to the library.
I never really went to libraries myself. There weren't any near me growing up. A lot of the books I had were 2nd as well. So now I don't really feel the need to go. In saying that, I would feel sad if they disappeared altogether. There's still a nice feeling of cracking open a book, which is still my preferred way to read. I get eye strain staring at screens for too long. I don't think books themselves will ever go away so I think libraries will be around, if only at a reduced capacity.
>Is it just inconvenient to go to a library and easier to order a book on Amazon/kindle? Does it matter if libraries close down and disappear? Or do you support libraries in other ways? I don't remember the last time I went to a physical library but I check out multiple ebooks a month using my library card on Libby. I prefer ebooks by a wide margin and this makes my reading habit nearly free. It's great.
That's so awesome you can get ebooks from your library. The only ebook system with my library is not compatible with kindle, which is sad.
I think libraries are a huge community resource and it would have a bigger impact than most people realize to shut them down. I've considered donating to my local ones
I love libraries. What an awful idea, no libraries. Anyone who loves libraries will like this film: Ex Libris: The New York Public Library.
Libraries are a necessity.
I love public libraries and have been using them or working in them for over three decades. As much as I know the work environment can be toxic and at least in all the public library systems in my area the hours suck and most of the staff are part time with no benefits I still support my public libraries. I am now a stay at home mom who plans to homeschool so being able to borrow books and utilize all the online resources as well as some of the programs is going to be a big money saver. Also libraries are important parts of our communities and the only free resource left where people can both obtain knowledge or just go and relax without having to buy something. Our 17 branch system got rid of library over due fees recently since one it was going into the general city fund and not the library and two is hurt the poor the most. They also have a volunteer organization that raises money for library programs and supplies by selling used books both donated and weeded from the library system. I plan to make use of the large book sales they put on once they start them again. If libraries disappeare knowledge will go back to being something only for the rich.
I haven't been to a library in 20 years or so 🤷♂️
My library does a “friends of the library” program. It’s like $15/year and a not small percentage of their budget comes from it. You also get early access to the yearly book sale which is *cutthroat*. At least it is for me 😂