Book Piracy & The Role of Libraries | A Discussion

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[@books-on-a-wire]

It annoys me to no end when people say "just use your library." I pay $50 a year for an out-of-state card and $40 for a non-resident card because I live outside the city limits. I will continue to pay for as long as they'll have me because I know they don't have a huge budget. Just this month I tried to donate a couple of bags and she was sending me away because they didn't have the resources to handle donations :( She got a look at the top book and called me back and snuck them in. It looked like it was Christmas Day for her as she went through them lol. They do so much for so little so any way I can help, I will.

[@mirnatius]

It makes my blood boil how dismissive people are about how much having a library is a privilege. Every discussion is always centered to the U.S. 😒 Amazing discussion as always! 💖

[@virginiafernandes336]

As a Brazilian that has to pay the amount of the book x 5 because of the currency convertion i find it HILARIOUS the discourse against book piracy and libraries. Oh sure, my library FOR SURE will have historical romances in english lol. I just can't. I wish i had the money to purchase all the books i read and i hope someday i will. But i will not wait for that day to read the things that i want. I understand the complaint from authors but there are other ways to compensate (talking about the book on social media, reviewing etc). People need to understand that all around the world people read in english so yeah, yo ho yo ho a pirates life for me

[@rissasaki]

Isso quando a gente tem biblioteca né 🤣 Porque nem isso a gente tem aqui nesse país

[@virginiafernandes336]

@@rissasaki pois é!!!! Eu ainda tenho o privilégio de usar a biblioteca de São Paulo que é ótima. Mas mesmo assim o acervo é bem limitado. Para lançamentos então nem em sonho. Achar que tudo se resolve na biblioteca é coisa de americano privilegiado hahahha

[@rissasaki]

@@virginiafernandes336 nossa SIM. Me dá raiva de ver esses filmes desses estrangeiros de como conseguir livros de graça porque eles sempre ficam falando : usem a sua biblioteca e eu só fico: querido, que biblioteca? 🤣🤣 Que biblioteca vc usa aqui em SP?

[@lubalsells8273]

As someone from Argentina, SAME! to everything you said.

[@bebella9005]

it's just sad how US-centric these discussions get. - and even sadder now that I know that even in the US having an amazing library is a privilege. People just throw the "use your library" card without even knowing how they work. This video was amazing; great work!

[@shan_john]

When I grew up in a rural part of the southern US, we did not have access to the internet living in the mountains. My dad would work construction job "shut downs" out of state. The jobs began requiring emailed resumes and no longer accept handwritten mailed copies. He would drive into the valley at the nearest town's library. The staff would help him create, modify and submit his resume. I remember the lines to use these computers. This library evolved and served the county well before the internet service providers expanded to every part of the mountain. This was the only access he had as the sole provider for our family. I just say this because the assumption that librarys are "a book warehouse where the staff sit around and read all day" is so damaging to the work they are doing.

[@MsAwesomeSaucey]

Libraries are amazing! But they can't do everything especially if it is not funded well.

[@NativeLadyBookWarrior]

Thank you for this video Ashley. My community doesn't have a library. And I have to drive a 4 hour round trip to apply for a library card so I could have access to Libby. Many in my community don't have this option bc they may not have transportation. And I am very privileged to be able to buy books that aren't available at the library. And yes, to still so many, a library is a privilege. Love the video.

[@emillyw5622]

I’m so lucky with my library as they have a system that lets them swap books with other libraries like one big collection with multiple locations. It also reminds me of how by the end of the year my high school library budget for new books was always so low and the head librarian couldn’t convince the school to increase the budget despite the number of programs that they held and hosted.

[@thursday48]

One minute in and omg the circular nature of book conversations is exhausting. I'm so glad you covered the other things that libraries do and the financial side of collection management. My mom was a school librarian for a number of years and was always doing math to try and make sure that all the age groups were getting quality books and I don't think anyone realized how much work that was.

[@Shelbyluhoo]

not even county to county, but zip code to zip code. in my city libraries are vastly different depending on whether you're on the east side or the west side, and not everybody can travel to the other side to access their resources despite being in the same county

[@PeaceLoveBooksxo]

My school I work at literally removed the library to replace it with a maker space and an “innovation center.” So much money goes towards STEM and tech and not actual books. The access to books is never a guarantee through a library. Great discussion!!

[@BookishRealm]

What?!? The whole library?!?

[@Lemonade_Stand_]

Apparently my old highschool got rid of all the physical books in their library. It's basically a computer lab now. I think they have kindles/ereaders to lend out but since half the students cant even return a pencil or pen who knows how long that will last.

[@lyddie465]

i work in a public library and we do literacy, digital literacy, financial literacy, housing workshops, harm reduction workshops, makerspaces. in our city we have 20+ branches and each branch is different (and i've worked shifts in a lot of them!) we struggle with ebook publishing embargos, audible exclusive audiobooks, acorntv that just cancelled its library subscriptions and funding. we cancelled late fines in order to benefit our community. school librarians are declining across north america, there is so much nuance here. thank you for your voice! appreciate your videos so much

[@isawhat8712]

Are school librarians declining because schools are cutting them from their budget?

[@lyddie465]

@@isawhat8712 it has a lot to do with district spending budgets, school boards and what is 'required' for a school to run according to legislation and recommendations. the explanation for cutting school librarian positions is often budget but that math doesn't really work out if you do the per-pupil data. the answer is messy and involves a lot of compounding factors but school librarian positions have disappeared by 20% over the last ten years. but, yeah, basically, budget or lack of it.

[@isawhat8712]

@@lyddie465 thank you for explaining what's happening to me. I didn't know school librarian positions were down 20% in the last decade.

[@lyddie465]

@@isawhat8712 of course! happy my explanation brought a little bit of clarity. i think the american library association might have some sources / articles on the situation although i'm not sure, if you're looking for more depth.

[@savfromsopn]

The school I work at just got rid of its library entirely because they desperately needed the space 😭 Luckily all of the English classrooms have walls of shelves filled with a pretty good selection, but still so sad

[@brooke5258]

As a former school librarian, I completely understand where you're coming from. As a reader who currently makes use of 2 library systems, I still can't find 75% of the books I'd like to read, not even digitally. And I know it's budgetary reasons, as you said. And it's frustrating as someone wanting to procure books "the honest way." Yet, realistically, libraries can't be the only answer. Funding, overall, for education and literacy just isn't where it should be.

[@JessOwens]

I did one semester of MLIS degree program and was like uh, no. It’s sooo much more than just the books. It’s so extensive and libraries provide such important services and programs. I’m grateful to have always had access to great libraries and of course I agree that the whole piracy convo is nuanced. Another great discussion! Thanks for being an amazing creator and fabulous librarian 😘

[@BookishRealm]

😩😩😩🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@tappkalina]

I'm from the shitty side of Europe and even if I didn't love to read in English more than I do in my mother language, majority of the books I read probably will never be translated. And on top of that, I live in a little town and my library doesn't have that much books.

[@InLoveAndWords]

YES! My library is SO different than my parents’ library only an hour away

[@alexandrasstudio5308]

My tiny library growing up was not the best so now as a parent I appreciate all the great services I get from our local and county libraries. On the topic of piracy I have family and friends in Mexico and buying a book can be a luxury for most of them. Some of the required readings in schools are either crazy expensive, or they get a poorly translated copy, or a summarized version of the book. It’s a tough subject but I completely agree with you, I appreciate the work librarians do everyday especially throughout this pandemic. Love your discussion videos!!!

[@rebeccassweetmusic4632]

Some people like to say that libraries are a "waste of taxpayer money" and that's not true. Libraries provide great extensions for social services. It's a place where people from low income communities who can't afford printers and wifi can come to the library and use their printer and free wifi access to do work or stuff like that. So, yes! Libraries are more than just a place to borrow books and it boils my blood when people say that it's a "waste of taxpayer money" because you nor I (I don't mean you, personally) have had experience working as a librarian BUT I used to go to my library a lot when I was in high school, so I know that it's more than just a place to borrow books.

[@SarahsNightstand]

I’m cheering listening to you. I just completed my MLIS and one of my assignments was to draft a letter to a government official defending my “job” and why libraries are important to the community. I was touching on so many different aspects of what libraries provide. It’s eye opening and many who don’t use the resources that the library provides are not aware of how much there actually is. If I hear one more time that I’ll be so lucky to work in a library so I can read all day…imma cut someone seriously. Great topic!

[@BookishRealm]

Congrats on finishing your MLIS!!!

[@damassss]

Thank you very much for this thoughtful discussion. Coming from a third world country with average salary of only around USD 300 a month, I WISH we have the kind of library that the US or UK has. We have practically no library here, and books are a privilege that many people can't afford. I am more privileged than other people in my country so I can afford books but I know many others that can't. I think for this topic, if we can afford it of course buy the books to support the author. However, if you literally can't access books, shaming people is just not the way to go

[@Lorie336]

It's true, libraries differ not only from county to county, but city to city. I have experienced this due to moving three times. Also, I can say this, even before libraries had the internet they had programs to help their community at least the city I lived in at the time. Then with the introduction of the internet they had to learn and teach the community, that was no small feat. I have watched my libraries evolve and grow, I have seen libraries in need of love because a levy failed. I was so grateful in my community they cared about their libraries and the levy passed. Not everyone has access and not every library has the same collection or can even get that book. Also, most libraries are interconnected with a certain community of libraries from what I have experienced. I love my library, it has always been my safe haven and a place where if I need help I could always ask. I respect my librarians for doing their job and doing their best to help their communities. Please, help your libraries, usually donate books and other media to my library, plus my one library has a year round store to buy books from. Every little bit helps and also vote for those levy's to keep them open because libraries are really our greatest resource. Love these discussions. Although, I don't have the knowledge of the back end, just watching as a kid until present day how libraries have grown is amazing. How YA has become a bigger section since I was younger, how there wasn't a middle grade section at all when I was a kid, and how the library can teach everyone life skills. Thank you to all my librarians you're adored. 😊❤️❤️❤️

[@literarylady1125]

Yay! More library-focused videos.😊 My library is fortunate to have really good funding to get new materials monthly, but the problem is the lack of space on the shelves.

[@Vtsonos]

Libraries are community spaces, not free bookstores and people keep forgetting that. The public at large also doesn't know the complicated relationships libraries have with publishers through embargos for audio/ebooks, to price gouging, etc., which have a huge impact on collection development. I have had so many people stereotype me, including family and friends for being a librarian. When I had to WFH due to the pandemic, I got so many comments from people saying "how can you WFH, you can't shelve books there", and I find it very disrespectful that people continue to perpetuate this stereotype without asking or learning about what libraries and librarians really do.

[@casuallybrady]

Thank you so much for talking about this. I grew up in a small town outside of city limits and had no library card. It would have cost like $60 a year, and that's for a small town (population less than 6,000 when I was growing up) two room in an old converted house library.My family couldn't afford that. Ebooks weren't super common when I was a teen but if they had been I absolutely would have pirated. Right now I'm super blessed to live in a city with a great library and to be able to afford a book here and there that my library doesn't have. So grateful for all that librarians do for the community !

[@RaspberryDevil]

Thank you for contributing to that discussion from the perspective of your job! The library I go to in Germany is a city founded one and as a student I don't pay much for a yearly card. While they (obviously) don't have the newest releases I see on booktube, they stil have a great selection. And with a bit of patience (it helps when you're a slow reader) they get newer titles. It helps to recognise how lucky I am in that regard :)

[@anyaconda3155]

I get both sides. I do read over 150 books a year and without netgalley and my public library (which btw is amazing), I wouldn't be able to because I can't afford to buy all those books. Even second hand books are quite pricey in NZ. Great discussion 🙂

[@christinetreasure5321]

We have amazing library systems here in Australia and I sing their praises every chance I get to my local friends! I can request a book from any library within my state and have it sent to my library for me, not to mention there is no cost involved unless you damage or lose books. Also every time we borrow a book here the author still gets royalties from it (not quite sure how it works/is funded but it's definitely a thing!), not to mention all the great programs they run for school holidays, job seekers, clubs etc. At the same time I understand how privileged and lucky I am to have that all available to me and would never begrudge someone else accessing literature in whatever way they are able/have the means to!

[@PumpkinMozie]

At first I thought the title of the video was “Book of Piracy” and I was like “hmm…is this like a how-to book on being a pirate?” Haha. Anyway libraries are so freaking important (speaking from a US perspective). The Philadelphia library for example offers soooo many free classes and programs for both kids and adults that helps out poor folks more than most people can imagine. Luckily in Philly the budget it relatively big! I just wish all communities across the US (and the whole world) could have a good budget :(. It benefits everyone so much. That’s why it’s great to donate to the library or participate in fundraisers like book sales whenever possible!

[@TheNovelSanctuary]

OHHHH YES THANK YOU. I appreciate people trying to push people towards libraries, but I'd appreciate it more if it was done in a nuanced way and with a better understanding. I wish I could purchase everything for my community, but I have to work within a budget, which was cut significantly due to covid, and when I have to juggle buying a 9$ physical book or an 80$ audio book thats only available for one year, or crafts for my kids or paying an ASL teacher for my program...like...I have to make decisions larger than many patrons understand.

[@BookishRealm]

Exactly! People don’t get it!

[@Readitandeat]

Yas! I worked in a library all through high school and people do NOT understand how hard library staff work. I remember one of my roles was to help some elderly people with computer literacy!

[@victoriiiamarie]

I'm currently in the process of applying as an assistant at my local library and am considering approaching it as my career. Your videos have been super helpful with sharing the honest truth about librarianship and what libraries are truly for. Thank you for sharing and for discussing how all of this works!

[@enchantedlight]

I honest didn't realize all that libraries do until I took "Intro to Library Science" as part of my MLIS in Archival Science. I was amazed by the amount and diversity of programs. And honestly a lot of that is done with relatively little funding. Love these discussion videos! On a side note... the CC for this video is weird... it sometimes appears in a foreign language (Spanish I think), and then other times it is a jumble of english words. Not sure why, but thought I would let you know.

[@justpepper5126]

This video was so comprehensive. I really appreciate your ability to articulate how passionate you are about your job. I had forgotten how essential libraries were in my childhood (holding educational events and reserving meeting rooms for my girl scout troop). Thank you for making this. Also, the face you gave at 15:03 should really be turned into a GIF. I would use it all. The. Time. 🤣

[@xJillie]

This was a great and informative video. I’m privileged by living in a pretty good library system, and I’m always paying attention to what’s coming up on the local ballots to make sure it stays that way/gets even better. A lot of people don’t understand the importance of libraries and even though I have good access, I’m still concerned about the future of it because when I talk about it with coworkers and friends, they often don’t care about libraries.

[@FrostaWingsIt]

I loved this video. I never heard of book piracy before! Eye opening. But I agree that libraries are so much more. I can honestly say that my local library is a big part of our community, they have so many good programs and the librarians work so hard to offer services that go beyond “books” to enrich the lives of people and connect them to each other. I’m really proud of the work they do.

[@stephaniebookish]

As a fellow librarian I seriously appreciate you and you taking the time to talk about libraries and what always feel like a misunderstanding of libraries and the assumption that libraries are created equal or are accessible all over the world. Oh top of that the lack of nuance that surrounds discussions about libraries, when we are only simplified to books it’s frustrating. I’m happy people advocate for libraries but it’s more complex than “just books”

[@chrisisbookinit]

thank you for speaking on this! I actually didn’t realize how big the disparity is from library to library until I went from the library in the city I grew up in in California to one in a different city in California to the local library here in Wyoming. The one here is the most extensive I think as far as physical book selections but lacking as far as digital and just technology in general (for example they aren’t connected to any apps like Libby, they have their own app that is…not very good and use a completely different app for audiobooks). My childhood library wasn’t great with physical collections on its own but it was ridiculously easy to get things sent from other libraries that they were associated with, they also were the best for borrowing videos and dvds. The library in a different city in California was somewhere in between. Where I was in California there were also multiple libraries within an hours drive, I think we had one that was specifically a youth library that only had picture books, children’s books, middle grade, and YA. Where I’m at in Wyoming there’s one library, the next one is at least a good hour away. So even from personal experience I can see why the “just use your library” argument falls apart under examination.

[@sarahfolger5232]

I appreciate your perspective and video. I live in an area with a very privileged library system. Toledo/Lucas County. I wish everyone could have the same experience.

[@RegardingReading]

My library is currently getting a huge makeover, which is like thank you, finally! It's growing to be more like a community centre type thing with library capabilities. I'm really excited to see how it turns out.

[@florl9194]

I remember when I was in elementary school and did think the library had all the books. Imagine my disappointment when I found out that wasn't true and budgets existed. I think most people saying book piracy shouldn't happen are mostly the ones who have never had much problems getting access to books, and mostly residing in the US. I know I always thought it wrong even when I struggled with access to books while growing up. I had all access in my school library, but outside of that I couldn't go to my neighborhood ones because transportation was hard to get and there was definitely no budget to buy books. It was until I was listening to a podcast a while back where they were discussing piracy in publishing (like you said, it always comes around) and they focused on access outside the US, that it made me actually think about it. Books are very expensive outside of the US, and some places don't even have libraries. What options do they have? I can not say if I was in those circumstances that I wouldn't do it either. I know I didn't do it growing up, but I also didn't have access to the internet unless I was at the library so I really didn't have that option either. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@mbranche4234]

Wow! I am privileged to have access to a wonderful county linked system that offer ebook, hard copies and a multitude of other services. Some books I want to own, but most books I obtain thru my library. My entire family utilizes the on-line borrow of hard copy books regularly.

[@lianutsumi6042]

I admire you so much because it's so clear how passionate you are about your profession, and about equity and accessibility. i feel like in every single video of yours that i watch, you always center equity and acknowledging that people have different experience and levels of access. thank you for your perspective!

[@bonniestevens4329]

I feel like I am very luck in my local library. It offers a myriad of services to the community, has a very healthy collection, and offers Libby and Hoopla. I am a prison librarian, and I frequently turn down donations because I just don't have the room. I also do frequent weeding as I don't have space on my shelves to house books that do not get read. Also, the county next to me has two libraries and very little budget. They have an Amazon wish list posted so that patrons who want to help can donate books that way.

[@heyimsasa]

i came into this discussion pretty late and i didn't know much about the discourse before this video. i'm lucky enough to be able to have access to my county's online library where all the libraries in the county have a huuuuge shared selection of books that they loan out via libby/kindle. that's mainly how i read nowadays if i don't have enough to buy the books i want. thanks for going in depth about it! it's a really important conversation to have.

[@ivystrong7203]

I consider my library one of the best uses of my tax dollars. Before pandemic, we had all age reading and craft groups. We also had monthly speakers and movies. Between my library, interloans from other libraries, Libby and Hoopla, I can pretty much get whatever book I want. I am so thankful for this privilege.

[@lucydonnelly1515]

I always feel so heard when Bookish Realm starts talking Libraries!! I love the phrase "not a warehouse for books"! I have used it so many times to explain the dynamism found within libraries. The thing that gets me is when people complain about long holds lists for the hot new books or fine/fee structures or any number of ills. Thank you for all that you do as a librarian and as an advocate! You are such an inspiration :D

[@dragonlibrary7268]

The library near my house if my husband and i date place both of us love reading and we have a great library and the people there are great too😂❤👋📚🌈

[@ohohnenyeoo2654]

Me too. My library is amazing. I’m lucky. Also, you and your husband is too cute.

[@socialbianca]

My local library in my county is literally 5 minutes away from the next county's library and they are so different from what they have and how they operate.

[@Jadethesloth756]

i was waiting to see if you would make a video about this! its great to see someone talk about nuance and talk about distortions like black and white thinking can be harmful in discussions like this. I think people want it to have an easy answer that allows them not to have to think about this. The library in my area is not well funded, wait lists can be a year long for some books and we happen to be a lower income area as well. Its hard to see people talk about libraries when they may not have visited many in the last decade. I give so much props to librarians working through this difficult system ❤️

[@Elizabeth-uu5tv]

Great video as always! I didn't follow the initial discussion, but I believe people commenting on libraries maybe don't actually use libraries themselves🤷🏽‍♀️ As an avid library user I am very well aware of the community impacts of libraries from being a safe after school location for children, a warm and safe place for the homeless, and all of the other things you mentioned. As someone who requests new releases all the time I'm aware that even in a large library system there are books that are just not gonna get purchased. I absolutely appreciate and respect the work you all do and I can completely understand your frustration on this topic.

[@dimples7162]

I love love love my library's but I was unaware that (in the us) not everyone has access to a library I assumed every town/city had their own library. I've always respected librarians and library's but your channel definitely opens your eyes to things we do not see behind the scenes. I live you channel ita so informative.

[@nicoswanmakes]

Yes! Thank you for these conversation points. The State I live in has a few county libraries but mostly they are up to the city to fund. And city limits are obscure because I live in a large state with a lot of rural areas. Our city library is a hub for our community. Its one of the reasons why I live where I do. I was so so so proud one of my older kids took a job at his library this summer to work in the teen section. People tried to talk him out of it but it gave him such a good job experience and let him use his community spirit in a productive way.

[@DanielleP0314]

I'm apart of the NJLA (NJ Library Association), and we just had an hour and a half long discussion on accessing free library cards for all, and that was a difficult discussion to have for us. I was one of those ignorant people who used to think that library workers all they did was read books all day. It took me talking to other librarians in my state to realize they do way more than that! I used to be a library associate, and I learned a lot about how libraries are funded and budgeting, programming, etc. Granted, I also did a lot of shelving lol. But it made me want to dig deeper and know more. On the other hand, I'd rather try my luck looking for a book at my local library rather than pirate. But not everyone has ACCESS to a library. My local library is 10 mins away and they barely have anything.

[@melissasteinman5467]

I have only volunteered at the libraries where we live(d), but I had an Amen moment when Ashley said "libraries are not book warehouses..."

[@readersgottoread1443]

I am saving this video to watch again and share. Thanks for clarifying (again) what we really do on the job. take care

[@jenniferdobbs7092]

I love the library! And I agree not many people realize all they do. I live a rather large county so each of our libraries are different. I actually live 4 doors away from local library and I miss it so much! As of now we will finally be opening in August. I had such a fear of it not reopening because at one time it wasn't used as often as it should have been. But I will say this, imo, I believe when our librarian retired after forever years she was, and still, tremendously missed. Whomever took over was quite rude and chased a bunch of people away. and that's why it wasn't being used anymore. She left and population in there picked back up. I would love to volunteer yo there when it reopens so they will have help, since you are right, many jobs have been lost, or people in general have found new ones. I just wasn't the library back. I would love to take my grandson up for story telling hour, I would love to let him pick out a book, and most of all, with this one being so close, and using no fuel, I can check out a book or two at a time, instead of 8, or more, because of the drive I have to pick up one book. I definitely appreciate all you librarians!

[@carterfrvr]

As a fellow librarian, I love this video! I often have to explain to people that there are different TYPES of libraries with different services. This usually comes about when undergraduate and graduate students are looking for textbooks, since the public library system I work for doesn't purchase textbooks. We can't handle buying a $300-$400 textbook every year because the publisher came out with a new edition. We have copies of Shakespeare's plays if you're taking an English class, but not a biology textbook that's likely going to be reprinted next year. On the other hand, I do get the pleasure of explaining what my library system offers to new library card holders, especially to people who may have experienced a non-U.S. library system or no library at all. For many, books were luxuries and they can often feel unsure or intimidated by approaching a library where they think they may not be able to borrow a book. The stunned look and pleasure on their faces always makes my day.

[@astellus]

👏👏👏 yes all of this. From one librarian to another, I appreciated this discussion so much.

[@TheWordN3rd]

I'll comment on the rest of the video later, but I wanted to mention that I love your discussion videos! You're always so thoughtful and you never fail to point out something I haven't thought of.

[@TheWordN3rd]

The piracy conversation is a hard one for sure because while I want authors to get paid, at the same time not everyone has equal access and of a person doesn't have access to a library or the funds to buy books that's not a sale you're losing anyways. My biggest issue w piracy is the people I've seen that are middle class and are defending if because they don't want to wait for their library to get it in or for the hold list to get to them and they "deserve to stay up to date" on new releases. Saw a lot of that when I was on tumblr, haven't seen it as much on Twitter but I follow a different set of people I think. Lack of access is a valid reason, imo, lack of patience is not.

[@terrahudson8761]

The library was my oasis in school from 4th grade to 12th to avoid mean people and to be surrounded by books was the best. I love my libraries! Going forward in time we have a big homeless population due to the fires in NorCal and libraries are a place for them to go. Lastly when I wanted to take classes to learn about computer programs my local library was providing some for free and some for super cheap. Nothing but respect for libraries and those that work in them. Oxox

[@afriendinsweden]

Thank you for bringing this POV to the discussion. Your explanation of how your library system works, made me investigate How it is Where I am in Sweden. And although I am quite privileged with our system I was surprised by the limitations, and I am in Sweden. That means I Can obtain electronic membership to a different system to obtain books for an for me affordable cost. But I have acces to the internet, the means for devices and memberships as well. I do advocate using your local Library though because of what I Learned from your videos and about the different roles a Library Can have in a community. Thank you. 🧚🏽‍♂️

[@ada-vo9gr]

I luckily live in an area with an amaizing library system, but this was a really good reminder to keep in mind during these coversations! I really love your videos and appreciate the effort you put into them❤️

[@jynxdcoffee8498]

Thanks, this was really interesting 😊And yes I kinda remember a similar discussion a while ago, but a repeated drip-drip of information can really help with comprehension of an issue. So while I get the frustration (few issues are as simple as they look on the outside) thanks for explaining again, you'll likely have to explain again in future, but it helps 😘

[@anne-marie339]

I really appreciate this discussion! I now have an amazing library system where I live in Canada (and it does so much more than just provide books) but even that library can’t buy every book (and beyond budget, often it’s licensing issues from American or other international titles). When I lived in Quebec, my access to English titles in the library systems were more limited (while I can read French, I prefer reading the original English) and luckily I was able to afford to buy most of the English books I wanted… otherwise I would’ve been much more limited in my options.

[@InLoveAndWords]

I’m SO grateful that you take the time for these discussions. I’ve been so curious about your thoughts when it comes to this topic because of how often libraries are referenced when talking about pirating.

[@BookishRealm]

It frustrates me when we are because most people who are throwing us in the conversations don’t understand how we work

[@ericarobbin]

Interesting topic. Can you make a video about what happens to book donations at libraries you know? Also good/legit/ethical organizations that offer grants for underserved communities to gain access to books and library building projects within and outside USA that you’d recommend?

[@RoxanneCanRead]

I was waiting for you to make a video on this I knew you'd have a well-rounded perspective! You're simply the best 😊

[@BookishRealm]

❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@DomLesTrebian]

Librarian here. Thank you for this video.

[@rebeccassweetmusic4632]

It's so true! Not everybody has access to a library. I'm very lucky to live in close to my library

[@MegBookishRamblings]

Libraries are so important to the community though many people do tend to forget that while some Libraries have the budget and space to offer a variety of reading materials along with other programs, it doesn't apply to all of them. I live near two Libraries which happen to be in the same county but are in different towns and their sizes are quite different. I can get most of my books between the two and sometimes I can have luck with the InterLibrary Loan system. Sometimes books aren't available which I understand because Libraries are usually limited on space and other factors have to be considered, not to mention some publishers limit as to how many copies of a book a Library can order even digitally. It hurts my heart that so many people aren't able to have access to a Library particularly outside the U.S. though with the pandemic, many even inside the U.S. aren't able to visit their local Libraries with all that's going on.

[@YldzKalkavan]

Thank you and I agree with all your points. to add to the discussion, here's a POV of someone who grew up in a small town in Turkey: the library's we had in our small city did not have enough books for us. children's section was so small, fiction consisted mostly of classics and literary fiction (my prefered genres were SciFi/Fantasy). on top of that some of them didnt even let you in without a membership - in which you had to provide your criminal record. Libraries were just not enogh for me. in addition, books are expensive and we didnt have the money (and we came from a middle class family, imagine the lower class). sometimes I'd skip lunch for a few weeks to save money for one book. so yeah I pirated. when people are talking about these kinds of things it is usually very US centric and comes from privileged perspective. they don't take in account how hard it is for people who love to read but don't have any other means. Should we just stop reading then?

[@moonbook12]

At 6:04 agree as my library help people learn about technology and that is amazing

[@allithebookgiraffe6145]

I moved to a new town a little over a year ago and I didn't realize how good I had it there! I used to visit my library ALL the time and it was apart of the Evergreen consortium, which made it easy to access just about ANY book I wanted. The Evergreen consortium is connected to over 100 libraries in my state and is funded by the Indiana State Library. I then moved to where I live now. My current library is not connected to that library and barely has any books by people of color and it drives me insane. They don't have most of the books I can think up. I studies Library Science in college, but currently don't work in a library. I also don't pirate books, but I think it would be irresponsible of me because I can afford not to.

[@moonbook12]

This video made me appreciate more libraries than before even do in my library the best the world they are trying the best to help people

[@AmyPatterson]

Thank you for this!!!! I try to use my library but it doesn't have a very big selection. I use it whenever I can but they seldom have what I want to read.

[@AbiofPellinor]

This is such an interesting and nuanced discussion, I really appreciated learning more from you

[@KathyTrithardt]

I am (was?) a page in my local library system, and my job class has yet to be called back.

[@jennderqueer]

I love my local library but it's so small, I'm pretty sure I could put all the stacks in my house. And even that small library is a privilege many don't have.

[@amy_harboredinpages]

I can attest to the fact of how in rural low income areas the library is not an option. My small town's little local library doesn't have the funding. They are only open Tues & Thur. The commity cut Sat. Because, well, I was the only patron utilizing the space 95% of Saturdays. The free wifi, the smell of tombs, and quiet, safe happy place to think, read, & study... sigh... Our town has grown a little (27new faces) in 10yrs. and I'm of the opinion they should revisit this decision (I know, purely selfish of me). Dang those small town budget cuts. I get it though, because I'm all too familiar with "limited budget". There's always the state's online link... but often the online library for ebooks and audiobooks doesn't have the title available, and I have to suggest they get a copy, and then I wait... weeks, months... 2 yrs... 😳 Sometimes the title of a book doesn't even exist within the database being used, and "suggest" is not an option. Soooo... I am not ashamed for seeking & utilizing an uploaded audio for "educational purposes"...

[@JoshsBookishVoyage]

Not the direction I was expecting her conversation to go, but it was still fascinating!

[@BookishRealm]

Thanks Josh!!

[@WildeBookGarden]

Ashley, what a wonderful nuanced discussion once again! Thank you for continuing to share your thoughtful perspective with us. Do you mind if I share this video on Twitter?

[@BookishRealm]

Of course love!

[@laurah8259]

Thank you for this incredibly informative video!

[@AndySsmall]

Just gonna say. I miss a local library. The closest one to me is 2 hours away. We do have the free little library at the elementary school but it's full of kid books.

[@miarose1117]

I get that you should support authors. If you have the means. The whole discussion seems to come from a place of privilege. I had access to a small library until I was 18.That did so much for my literacy and my love of reading even if the book selection was limited. If I hadn't I would have too rely on books I got gifted. And we were poor, my birthday presents were mostly clothes, candy and "useful" stuff. Books sure did not fall into that category in my family, though they indulged their little weirdo as best as they could. I would have pirated had I know how to do that.

[@labradoodledandies4697]

Excellent points

[@bethannebruninga-socolar]

Excellent video, and thank you so much for making it.

[@CoffeeOverApples]

Bingo. Absolutely 💯💯💯💯

[@hibiscusq5346]

People need to consider that there is a world outside the United States! I lived in a tiny village & the nearest library was in the city. Hardly anyone could afford transportation to the city. Buying books were out of the question because they are so expensive. I live in the U.S now and I am lucky that there is a wonderful library about 5 minutes from me.

[@chiroptophilia]

Yes! We don't even have non-academic books in our libraries, lol. I'm talking about my entire country here, not just some small province. I mean, you can find the occasional classic. *Maybe*. But no new releases, no lesser known authors, no translated works...absolutely NO ebooks. The import tax skyrockets the price of paperbacks. Like...I'm sorry, but I'm not villainizing a minimum-wage earner in a 3rd world country for pirating books.

[@LadyMcCrystal]

I love your discussion videos!

[@BookishRealm]

Thank you!

[@cocochanel3812]

Great video Ashley

[@BookishRealm]

Thank you 😊

[@eryzish]

This is gold ✨💥

[@BookishRealm]

❤️❤️❤️

[@brianamaria767]

Another great insightful video

[@BookishRealm]

Thank you !

[@cai_nwa_ogu]

She cuuuuuute!

[@moonbook12]

For me my library in my city the only great things is Libby has more dirvse books on there and I think sometimes they do the best they do

[@lyddie465]

wow you look beautiful i'm watching right away i love your discussion videos

[@ThistleVerse]

Yeah, these circular discussions are disappointing. Ms. WoC Reader shared an interesting article about the actual book buying habits of people in the US who pirate books based on survey data from an ALA study, and it didn't neatly fit into the discussion people were having on twitter. Article's on bookriot, and it's called Book Pirates Buy More Books and Other Unintuitive Book Piracy Facts.

[@furtivedolus2504]

Piracy is more of a public good these days than public libraries.

[@moonbook12]

At 9:26 you're bllionaire in trem of reading (joke)

[@Blackcatninja09]

I feel like a better catchphrase would be "don't pirate books, support your local libraries & bookstores and say fuck you to Amazon"

[@cakt1991]

Depending on where people live and their circumstances, Amazon is the only option. Where I live, we don’t have local indie bookstores. There’s a B&N and I go when I can. The library here is good, but doesn’t have everything, which Ashley touched on. Not to mention the reasons disabled people might require Amazon for other things due to it being the cheapest. Maybe we need to stop dictating what people do, and say “you do what you need to get what you need,” and discuss larger scale solutions that don’t involve demanding unreasonable things of vulnerable people.