I love libraries. Growing up, our local library was a great place to study, read, or wait for the bus, and was a never-ending source of new and interesting information. I’ve moved away but still donate, because I want others to enjoy the benefits I had. Libraries are idea repositories, the physical embodiment of one of humanity’s most impressive accomplishments: the preservation and dissemination of knowledge. The real genius of our current iteration of this concept, however, is that we made so many of our libraries free.
Once upon a time, only the rich could afford books. (Heck, for a long time, few could read at all. And while we’re here, feel free to take a quick detour into the world of traditional bookbinding.)
Now, we all benefit when we all learn.
To those who say that the world is worse than ever? I give you public spaces filled with the magic of ideas, free for the borrowing.
Libraries are a great source for reading material but can also supply music, movies, information, classes, tools, seeds, eclipse glasses, museum passes, fishing poles, a taxidermied sandhill crane, or help with your taxes.
How cool is that?
Why am I talking about libraries? Because PBS has a new documentary about the evolution of the public library system in the US, and it got me thinking. Here’s a review from another national treasure, NPR:
‘Free For All’ review: This library documentary is worth checking out
…this documentary ends up covering all sorts of ground. The historical beginnings of American libraries, with nods to Ben Franklin and Andrew Carnegie. The growth and importance of tiny branches in rural communities. And, at each stop, a focus on individual libraries, librarians and everyday patrons.
Those in the US can watch the full film here:
Free for All: The Public Library – Independent Lens
How public libraries shaped a nation and remain a beloved sanctuary for Americans today.
If you can’t access the film, here’s a bonus article:
10 Ways Public Libraries Make Our Lives Better
Any answer must begin, of course, with books.
It asks, “With the internet putting a seemingly infinite supply of answers, arguments, and amusements at our fingertips, do we still need libraries?”
I say yes.
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J.R. Johnson 
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