Libraries are, of course, more than just books,
magazines, journals, and have been for quite a long time. According to an
opinion piece by Matt A.V. Chaban
in the September 18, 2017 edition of The New York Times we should think more
creatively about possible uses for libraries. No librarian or former librarian
would ever take issue with Chaban’s title statement. Libraries today are a focal
point, a hub for communities. They offer opportunities for research, use of
technology, as well as cultural and educational programs for all ages.
As writers, we want
our books in libraries. We’re also pleased to speak at libraries. They help us
reach many readers. Mr. Chaban, the author of this article, points out that “demand for libraries reaches new highs with each
passing year (nearly 34 million visits in 2016).”
However,
the purpose of Mr. Chaban’s article is to mention that he believes outdated
libraries specifically in New York City could be turned into affordable low
income housing—certainly a unique idea. His idea is to build the housing over
the libraries developing and supporting both.
I
recall when everyone was surprised by the idea of selling coffee in libraries.
New uses for libraries continue to turn up—some of them absurd, others innovative.
Nevertheless, one thing is certain: libraries play an important role in society
and the continuation of culture. As a writer, teacher and former librarian, I
salute libraries and librarians everywhere.
Your
thoughts and opinions welcome.
13 comments:
What a unique idea...apartments above libraries. I think as in anything with marketing, if you piggy-back ideas or investments off one another, it can sometimes have a really beneficial impact. Why not? And it sure makes it easy to have brick and mortar right beneath your feet! :)
Libraries DO play an important role in our society and I think they should be protected in some way. They actually may be LOL!
Great post, Jacquie.
Good luck and God's blessings
PamT
I enjoy discovering the new opportunities libraries offer, and I think housing over libraries would be a great idea. As I've probably said before, the US is the only country to have a totally free library system. An Australian pointed that out to me. Access to a public reading room with newspapers and magazines isn't the same as access to all the books and resources in the building. Only the US offers all that without membership, letters of reference, or fees.
Loretta, Pam, and Susan,
You all bring up good points and display a positive, open-minded attitude when it comes to library usage. We writers are excellent partners for libraries. We also appreciate them.
It seems like Google and Amazon have single handedly taken out the bulk of patrons that once depended on Libraries. Good post. Food for thought.
Zari,
I think many older people still prefer to borrow books from the library. But the younger generations are definitely devoted to digital books.
I also consider libraries one of our most important resources and wish they had more public and government support than they do. As to those apartments, I'd be agreeable provided the tenants be required to utilize the library as more than just a place to hang out.
John, I agree with you, of course. As to people actually living above the libraries, I see pros and cons as well.
I believe i will return for a second life as a librarian or a used book! LOVE my libraries (I have 3 cards for 3 different locations) which I use for my two book club selections as well as research and book signings. As much as I use my Kindle, I could not exist without the print and other materials in my libraries. Of curse, I also download lots of e-books from said libraries, as well.
Public libraries keep evolving and expanding their services even as their imminent demise keeps getting predicted. What about receiving corporate sponsorship like sports venues get?
I <3 libraries!
Cardyn Brooks
Hi Susan,
Technology has made libraries more valuable to the public than ever, as well as more accessible--as you observe.
Cardyn,
Your idea of corporate sponsorship for libraries is innovative and would help lots of poor rural libraries. Bill Gates has done a lot in that respect.
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