literature Loose the libraries?

[Bazinga!]

Do you think libraries will eventually go away? Why or why not?

 

[Shawn]

Maybe. I think they will become more privatized.

There is a city library where I am that wants to become privatized because its ran by religious folks who don't want any books that do not comply with Christian values.

It's a big ordeal, too.

I think people just need a reason to hate each other.

 

[Unvarnished]

I hope not! Libraries are so much more than repositories of books. They are community centers, research places, and also a very peaceful places for reflection. With digital media coming into being, libraries have changed focus and now provide e-books, audiobooks, and digital resources. They are changing, not dying.

 

[Yama]

Libraries will not go away, they will be there but eventually they will digitize everything and allow people to visit library digitally.

 

[Harsh World]

I hope not, and I hope that they remain public infrastructure (as opposed to privatization, unless there's a good argument to reallocate city funds to something better and to have private donors control it) so that everything - and I mean everything - can be stored on the shelves in multiple places around the counties, states, and country.

Privatization can be good, and it can be bad, but mostly bad because there's control over what can be on the shelves and what can't.

However, if your city is struggling with homelessness and is diverting $1,000,000 to a public library, I would say the funds would be best spent elsewhere as the "banned" books could always be accessible somewhere. What does remain would be helpful in the event of a catastrophe where text is all we have.

 

[Ashake]

hope not! Libraries are so much more than repositories of books. They are community centers, research places, and also a very peaceful places for reflection. With digital media coming into being, libraries have changed focus and now provide e-books, audiobooks, and digital resources. They are changing, not dying.

You are absolutely right with what you posted but I would like to add that the library is a community hub that is meant for learning, enhancing creativity and for socialization. I have seen libraries host workshops and even organize mental health support groups for people. My point is, a library is more than just book repositories.

Libraries will not go away, they will be there but eventually they will digitize everything and allow people to visit library digitally.

Digitalization is trending but I do think that we need physical libraries as well. Browsing books on the shelf has some kind of attraction and it is even more exhilarating to hold a physical book in my hands. Also, libraries are quiet and it’s distraction free space that is very hard to find elsewhere.

However, if your city is struggling with homelessness and is diverting $1,000,000 to a public library, I would say the funds would be best spent elsewhere

I understand where you are coming from. On a personal note, I have seen many libraries support the communities and even offer life changing services like job training to the people. If we support the library, it is a way to create safer and more supportive communities.

 

[Yama]

Browsing books on the shelf has some kind of attraction

Physical libraries will continue to exist but not for the sheer pleasure of browsing books on the shelf but to see the valuable books. Wouldn't it would be great to see the first printed Bible or the hand written books?