Are libraries still relevant?

[DalekPrideParade]

Definitely. I borrow from my library all the time. I am continuously reserving books and DVDs, I love libraries.

[queenofjacks]

I go to my library all the time. However, THEY lost my book last time and tried to tell me I never returned it. Luckily my friend is pretty high up there and was able to locate it (on the shelf by the way, and had been checked out my other people multiple times) before they charged me $20! I still love going to the library.

[10-cat-mom]

I am sad to say that I no longer visit my local library. That being said, I still would LOVE to live in one! My e-readers have become an appendage. I use them daily (yes, I said them) and would be lost without them. I like the idea of having thousands of books at my fingertips that never need returned. I still believe libraries are relevant though, just not for me at this time.

[ALynnPowers]

Definitely. So many people still don't have access to computers like we think they do, and the libraries are needed if even just for the use of computers alone. And nothing beats proper research in a library, not even internet searches, for a good peer-approved article.

[malloryw09]

I go to the library multiple times a week, mostly just to pick up books that I've put on hold. But I also take my 2 year old son to story time at our library once a week. I absolutely think that libraries are a critical part of any community.

[alyssaemerson]

I think they are still relevant. I check out books from there all the time. Some books I would only read once and I don't want to spend my money on a one time read. Plus they do offer CD's, DVD's, Magazines, free internet, and a quiet place to sit and read. I love my local library.

[maitdi]

I think the libraries are VERY relevant. I love the books not just the ebook and its content but the smell, touch it, going through its pages. Maybe I'm old fashion but I prefer the object and going to the libraries it seems the best plan for me.

[doglvr]

The literary world is changing so rapidly!

I'm curious. Do you think the library is still relevant?
Do you go to a physical library?
What things/events/programs (if any) draw you there?
If you don't think they are relevant do you think something should be done to make them relevant?
or should they just fall by the wayside?

So many questions ...

I can't imagine not having a library. I volunteer at my public library and you would be amazed at how many patrons are taking out books. I love seeing youngsters & teenagers with a book in their hands. I also download books from my library to my tablet & have a Kindle but the feel of a hard cover book is a pleasure to me.

[Duende Knocking]

For sure. I used to go to the book club at the local library as a child, and when I was in college I ran the YA book club for a year or so (ended up studying abroad and when I came back someone else was running it who wasn't about to give it up so that was that )

I prefer libraries that have a personal feel to them. Even if there might be less book options at a smaller library, the idea of a more "hand-picked" collection is appealing, and I like being able to talk to the people who suggest them.

[C S Harper]

Libraries are very relevant. I frequent my library quite often. I enjoy speaking with the librarians that work there. They seem to be very knowledgeable. I often ask them for book recommendations. Frankly, I am a people person and enjoy the interaction with other avid readers.

[Ailla]

Libraries are relevant to society. The reason for this is because the fundamental, old school library that everyone remembers no longer exists. Libraries are so much more than just a place to go to check out books or do research for a school assignment. Community libraries have become gathering places for young children just learning to read, older high schoolers looking for a quiet, safe place to hang out and do homework, and for parents to find movies and TV shows that they perhaps cannot afford or do not want to buy without seeing it first. Modern libraries are involved in the communities that they are hosted with by community functions being held there, taking donations, and encouraging children to read with their reading competitions/programs. Libraries have adapted and evolved with the modern age to still be relevant even in the Digital Age.

[doglvr]

Libraries are relevant to society. The reason for this is because the fundamental, old school library that everyone remembers no longer exists. Libraries are so much more than just a place to go to check out books or do research for a school assignment. Community libraries have become gathering places for young children just learning to read, older high schoolers looking for a quiet, safe place to hang out and do homework, and for parents to find movies and TV shows that they perhaps cannot afford or do not want to buy without seeing it first. Modern libraries are involved in the communities that they are hosted with by community functions being held there, taking donations, and encouraging children to read with their reading competitions/programs. Libraries have adapted and evolved with the modern age to still be relevant even in the Digital Age.

Very well said & I heartily agree. If my library were closed it would be like losing part of my family.

[angelbeats1]

Of course! I for one, cannot imagine a world with out libraries! I have rented so many wonderful books from my public library. Additionally, I've met so many great people who have the same passion as me: reading!

[perphila]

I will say straight away I am biased being a librarian. Still, my library is very small. Only officially open in summer but we have a hard core winter community that will trudge through the snow and browse in the cold (no heat inside) just to find a book. In summer we have all kinds of events and reference services, display, and programs. Wifi, DVDs, VHS, audio and all that jazz you get from a big full time library. The main thing though is that community base that is vital not just for the library but for the community as a whole. People gather on the porch to discuss things just like we do here. What did you read over the winter? What was your favorite book growing up? Did you hear so and so has a new book coming out? Did you know they made that into a movie? Parents have a chance to let their kids experiment at no cost books that will hopefully trigger a lifetime of love and learning. Adults can find something new and branch out of reading comfort zones. I think just knowing that our library for example is run with no funding at all except donations and volunteers is a good indicator how much having a library no matter how small means to people.

[Gotta Book]

I may only use my library online but I would be lost without it.