Do you believe the era of public libraries is over?

I wish they would last forever, but admittedly I haven't been inside mine in years. I'm torn. I used to be a "Friend of the Library" years ago and trusted to replace books into the Collection.
Packerjohn said:
Not for me! I love libraries and go to the local one 1 day each week. I borrow books, some music and sometimes movies but then nothing can beat the "Gunsmoke" that I owe. Don't like Christmas movies so that helps those that want to watch "Miracle on 34th Street" for the 50th year in a row.
Click to expand...
Click the Blue text that says "WATCH ON YOU TUBE"...John this is just for you. Merry Christmas-
 

I hope they would not be. I don't utilize the library anymore. I read more some times than others and may have more than one book going so I don't like a timeline. I look for as many books as possible at the thrift store.

But libraries are very important and I don't think they should ever go away. The library in Santa Cruz used to have very interesting rotating displays behind glass when you first walked in and I remember that I enjoyed looking at those.
 
hollydolly said:
I love real books but the library isn't the place to go if you want the joy of choice and quiet.. so now I download books to my kindle..or buy Harback Books...
Click to expand...
Has the time of quiet in the library gone away in your area also? I remember as a kid, you whispered only in a library. And kids knew this also. But it seems the last time I was in one, that wasn't the case.
 
Remy said:
Has the time of quiet in the library gone away in your area also? I remember as a kid, you whispered only in a library. And kids knew this also. But it seems the last time I was in one, that wasn't the case.
Click to expand...
The "quiet" rule still holds, in our libraries where many students go to study.
Story Time for little children, is usually held in a private room.
 
fuzzybuddy said:
I'm dyslexic, so reading is chore for me. It dawned on me that I haven't been in a public library in decades. I was wondering if public libraries are passe. You can get books on almost any device, today. And, most reference books are online. Do you think the era of public libraries is over?
As a sideline question:
It's "library"- L-I-B-R -A-R-Y, but do you call it, "libRary" or "libary"
For me, it's 'libary".
Click to expand...
I don't think so, libraries are changing with the times to offer more than just books.



We are fortunate to have over 9,000 public libraries in the United States.


Libraries offer free content to local communities. Public libraries have always been a repository of books, but their role is changing and expanding. Americans have been moving away from printed content and are turning to digital access for much of their reading.


Library leaders are adapting and redesigning public libraries to provide the type of content their patrons want.


While borrowing books is still popular with many people there is also a demand for libraries to offer content that has not been traditionally associated with libraries. Here are some examples of how our libraries are changing and what content you may find at your local library.


Books


Not only can you borrow books but also eBooks and audiobooks. Why pay when you can borrow them from the library for free? Many sites offer eBooks and audiobooks but almost all charge a monthly fee. Use apps like Hoopla, Kanopy, Libby and Flipster to borrow content.


Libby lets you to borrow eBooks, audiobooks, magazines and newspapers.


Hoopla offers video streaming, audiobooks, comics, eBooks, newspapers, music and more.


Kanopy has an extensive collection of movies, documentaries, foreign films, classic films and other content.


Flipster provides access to digital magazines including National Geographic, Conde Nast, Meredith, Bloomberg and others.


All of the apps are free. You can use them on your smartphone, tablet, computer and streaming devices.


Costumes, prom dresses and other attire


Prom dresses and formal wear, costumes, outerwear and sportswear and just some of the clothing items some libraries may lend.


Tools


Auto and home repair tools, battery chargers, vehicle diagnostic code readers and other tools may be available at your local library.


Technology items


Movie projectors, Wi-Fi hot spots, laptops, tablets, smartwatches, cameras and headphones, 3-D printers, cassette-to-digital converters, DVD players, VCR’s, GoPro cameras, indoor HD antennas, record players, streaming devices, metal detectors and more. Almost all libraries offer internet access when you visit in person. Most have designated areas setup with computers, tablets, laptops and printers for patrons to come in and use.


Cooking and baking supplies


Cake decorating accessories, cookie cutters, cake and pie pans, food dehydrators, food processors, stand mixers and other supplies.


Art and craft supplies and toys


Sewing machines, laminators, label makers, sewing and knitting accessories, art supplies and more.


Children can borrow toys including puzzles, games, dolls, farm animals, action figures, Legos, blocks, music makers and more.


Voter registration forms


Many libraries now offer voter registration forms. They can help you fill out the forms and register to vote.


Tax documents


They provide tax documents and during tax season many libraries offer free tax services. They have tax experts on hand that will help you prepare and file your tax returns.


Database and subscription services


Often you must pay a fee to access online databases. Check with your public library. Many offer this content for free. Some examples are data from the Federal Depository Library Program which provides access to health, employment, science and technology information, books, maps, periodicals and journals. And to Government information and historical documents.


Other information that may be available is ancestry information through ancestry.com, investment information through Morningstar, Consumer Reports, Newsbank and other publications you would normally pay for.


Fun and games


My local library has family game night and teen video game night. They also have movie night, trivia games, sleep overs, laser tag competitions and other fun events. They have board games and card games available for you to borrow.


Educational classes


Technology, cooking, home repair and sewing are just some examples of classes that may be available.


Musical instruments


Many libraries now lend musical instruments.


Museum passes and discounts


A lot of libraries hand out passes for free or discounted admission to museums, art galleries, local sporting events, zoos and other venues. This is a great service, check with your local library to see what they offer.


Meeting Rooms


Many libraries offer a gathering space for meetings and other get togethers. These can include cultural, business and civic events, educational events and book club meetings.


Book clubs and story times


Book clubs for children and adults can be a lot of fun. My library often chooses a book to read and when the book club has finished, they invite the author for a visit to discuss the book and answer questions. Book clubs are a great way to make new friends, gain a different prospective, read more and engage with others that have similar interests. And story time at the library for children helps them to make friends and develop a lifelong love of reading.


Seeds


Some libraries give out seeds for vegetables, herbs, and flowers that patrons can pick up and take home to plant.


Schedule time with a librarian


Many libraries allow you to schedule time with a librarian who can help you with research, answer technology questions, instruct you on how to use the digital library and more. You can often schedule time in-person, by phone, using chat or email or virtually using web conferencing.


These are just some of the services libraries may offer. We should do all we can to support our libraries. They are such a valuable resource. Here are some things you can do to ensure your library is well supported and continues to thrive.


Apply for a library card


Most offer online applications. You can also stop in and sign up, it only takes a few minutes to apply for a card and it will give you access to all the library has to offer. Encourage others to apply for a card and share with them the benefits you have received utilizing your public library.


Join Friends of the Library Groups


Friends of the library is a group of volunteers that act as advocates for their library. They help with book sales, fund raisers and other events.


Vote for candidates who support local libraries


Libraries are mainly funded through local and state taxes. Vote for candidates who support libraries and have a history of voting for legislation that benefits libraries.


Sign up with the American Library Association


The American Library Association is a US based library advocacy group. To quote their website


“On our site, you have access to the resources you'll need to contact your elected officials and advocate for your local libraries. ALA's Public Policy and Advocacy (PPA) Office was established in 1945 to represent libraries on Capitol Hill. The PPA team is charged with following and influencing legislation, policy, and regulatory issues of importance to the library field and the public. ALA works to ensure that libraries are consistently involved in the legislative and policy decision-making processes by:


Informing government of the needs and concerns of the library community;


Providing library supporters with up-to-date information on government actions or proposals;


Building coalitions with Washington-based representatives and other groups with similar concerns; and


Developing grassroots networks to lobby legislators and further library interests.”

When you visit their site you can search for your elected officials by name, address, or zip code. You will see details about each representative as well as how they have voted to support public libraries.
You can also sign up for their mailing list to receive action alerts and updates on policy issues relevant to libraries.

Become a library trustee

Trustees are advocates for libraries. They work to obtain funding to build new libraries and maintain existing libraries. They set policies and oversee the management and running of the library.


Call your local library to see what you can do to offer support.
 
I hate it when I hear someone call a library, a lie-berry. I know what they mean but still, it’s a little bit sad to hear language butchered that way.

Libraries are a lot more than books these days, that’s for certain. Libraries in n the area I used to live in loaned musical instruments, laptops and tablets and so many other things as well. As a child who seemed to never get much notice at home, I knew that all of the librarians at my local library knew my name and they always welcomed me whenever I visited which was pretty much every day. It was a haven for me there and I still enjoy going to libraries wherever and whenever I travel.

Major publishers have been working for some time now, to limit or even possibly eliminate libraries being able to offer their wares. A book or other media is only paid for once, yet the lifespan of such media is quite a while in circulation. The bottom line (profit) is more meaningful these days it seems.

For more info click here
 
I have a nice local library about a five minute drive from here. It serves many community functions and has lots of books, CDs, and other materials. PCs for those who need them. I use it as a backup office when it gets noisy around the house (i.e. when the children are visiting, or when the landscaping team for the complex is outside). And I borrow books I don't care to own, like detective novels.

What's not to like? I don't see it going away anytime soon. I give them books I've read and once in a while I'll buy a hardcover book for $2 when they have a sale.
 
Right Now said:
As a former librarian for 10 years, libraries are going strong. It isn't simply offering book shelves lined with reading materials.
It's the oasis of many small communities where moms can bring their children for social reading times and interact with other small tots.
It's a place where teens can use tech tools, goggles, cafe tables to meet with friends while doing homework.
It's a place tutors meet with students outside the school after hours for needed help.
It's a place science programs, magician acts, zoo keepers, stretching routines, cooking classes, Alaskan sled racers, computers skills, painters, artists, book clubs, and a hundred more offerings on a week night or a Saturday morning are available for sign ups.
It's a haven for the homeless for a few hours to get warm in a study room, those who can't afford computers can use the library's for a time.
It's a place ...... the best place....any town or village can keep the community thriving.

No, libraries have a place in our lives no matter our age, race, religion, or interests.
Click to expand...
Well said!
 
I think public libraries are here to stay. Growing up in Cleveland, my family was poor, and the library was my haven. I would bring bags of books home each week and read voraciously. As an adult, I have participated in playing quartet music in libraries, and I have taken my son many times when he was young to listen to the librarian read a story. I also have contributed books to the local library for their book sale as well as a few trees in memory of my late husband. However, the pandemic has kept me away. I have my own library at home (over 1,000 books), plus what's available online.
 
I hope not. Although, my neighborhood library has been going through renovations for over a year now.

I've used their printer when mine runs out of ink, or for books, exercise classes.
 
Jules said:
This seems really low. Google says there’re are over 108,000 cities and towns and I thought every town would have a library and big cities would have several.
Click to expand...
I was referring to public libraries. There are also many more local and community libraries. Generally public libraries are open to everyone while community libraries may be limited to the community.
 
fuzzybuddy said:
I'm dyslexic, so reading is chore for me. It dawned on me that I haven't been in a public library in decades. I was wondering if public libraries are passe. You can get books on almost any device, today. And, most reference books are online. Do you think the era of public libraries is over?
As a sideline question:
It's "library"- L-I-B-R -A-R-Y, but do you call it, "libRary" or "libary"
For me, it's 'libary".
Click to expand...
The libraries around here are fortresses. Places that if we are in need of “bomb shelter” like places that’s where one would go. Now as far as being a great library for books well let me say; its a good thing they all have Libby type lending book sharing.
 
palides2021 said:
my family was poor, and the library was my haven. I would bring bags of books home each week and read voraciously
Click to expand...
The situation was the same for me growing up. No way we could afford to pay for the books we wanted to read. I remember my mom struggling seemingly forever to pay off a set of encyclopedias. We would occasionally get a book as a birthday present.

’The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek’ by Kim Michele Richardson is a very good book that illustrates how important books were/are to the poor.
 
s76l42 said:
I was referring to public libraries. There are also many more local and community libraries. Generally public libraries are open to everyone while community libraries may be limited to the community.
Click to expand...
Our public libraries require you to pay property taxes in the area in order to check out materials. You can go there and use the facilities and read to your hearts content but you can‘t check items out or read “Libby” items without a card. Around here library cards are $50.00 a year
 
Wontactmyage said:
Our public libraries require you to pay property taxes in the area in order to check out materials. You can go there and use the facilities and read to your hearts content but you can‘t check items out or read “Libby” items without a card. Around here library cards are $50.00 a year
Click to expand...
Wow, that seems restrictive and expensive. Our county only requires proof that you live or work in the county. No one cares if you paid property tax. The card is free.
Even juveniles under age 18 can get their own card as long as their parents meet requirements.

if you don’t live in the county you can still get a card if you just pay $20 a year.
 

You must log in or register to reply here.

Back
Top