Public libraries aren’t going out of style any time soon. Even though we live in the “digital age” with information at our fingertips, and it should seem that public libraries would eventually become obsolete, they’re still going—thriving, even—with full parking lots on a daily basis. Public libraries are important community builders, and it turns out people still really like going and checking out material every once in a while. Here are some of the reasons public libraries are still great:
1. Free books!
Yes, this is obvious, but it’s still worth talking about. Libraries have endless information and stories, and you can access them all free of charge—that is, if you don’t keep them past their due dates. But even then, late fines are almost nothing. You can find a book on pretty much any subject you can think of, and if not, your library probably has it in eBook format.
2. Free music and movies, too!
Not only do public libraries house hundreds of books, but you can also check out CD’s and DVD’s or borrow music in mp3 format. This is great because movies and music can be pretty pricey, and sometimes you don’t want to spend money on them. Libraries let you watch and listen to all your favorites without breaking any laws!
3. Free wifi
Though more and more places are starting to provide wifi to customers, it’s not always free, and it’s definitely not always reliable. However, you can always count on your local library to provide free, working wifi that you can use to your heart’s desire.
4. Librarians are super helpful
Librarians get a bad rap from the movies and TV shows, but in real life, most of them are actually really enthusiastic about helping people. Since public libraries are primarily community information centers, librarians specialize in helping people access information, do research and so much more. If you ask a librarian a question, they probably have an answer.
5. No one bothers you
If you try to get work done at a coffee shop or restaurant, you might feel rushed and a barista or waitress might try to run you off, but at public libraries, no such thing happens. You can get there when it opens and leave when it closes, and no one will bother you or make you feel rushed. Plus, you’re surrounded by all the information you might need and people who want to help you. There are no downsides to getting work done at the public library!
6. It’s a great place to think
Because no one is going to bother you and the library is universally a quiet place, it provides amazing clarity of thought. If you’ve got writer’s block or a big project you just can’t figure out or just need some quiet time, then head to your nearest public library!
7. You can use computers and office supplies
Most people have computers at home nowadays, but every now and then you might need to send a fax or make a ton of copies of something, and you might not be able to do so from home. Public libraries usually have almost every office machine you can think of, and though using them is not free, the rates are very reasonable.
8. Events
Public libraries host a wide array of events ranging from super helpful to super fun. These events can be anything from author visits/signings and seminars on how to file your taxes to game nights and even speed-dating events, and these are just a few examples. You can find out what kind of interesting events your local library hosts on their website.
9. Archives
Library archives are full of interesting, sometimes useful, sometimes weird history. You can view public records at no cost or browse your library’s digital resources. You can find out all sorts of things about your town by browsing through your local library’s archives.
Public libraries are the cornerstones of community, and despite the “digital age,” I think they’re going to stick around for a long time. In the words of Ray Bradbury:
“Without libraries what have we? We have no past and no future.”
