Do We Still Need Libraries?

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In the internet age what's the point of libraries? Do we even still need these brick and mortar buildings when a lot of knowledge can be found online? Today, Danielle examines the history of libraries around the world and what role they still play in society.
Written and Hosted by: Danielle Bainbridge
Produced by Complexly for PBS Digital Studios
#library #librarian #education
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Origin of Everything is a show about the undertold histories and cultural dialogues that make up our collective story. From the food we eat, to the trivia and fun facts we can’t seem to get out of our heads, to the social issues we can’t stop debating, everything around us has a history. Origin of Everything is here to explore it all. We like to think that no topic is too small or too challenging to get started.
Works Cited
Black librarianship:
McHenry, Elizabeth. “An Association of Kindred Spirits: Black Readers and Their Reading Rooms,” in Augst and Carpenter, eds. Institutions of Reading: The Social Life of Libraries in the United States (Amherst: University of Massachusetts Press, 2007), pp. 99-118.
Fultz, Michael. "Black Public Libraries in the South in the Era of De Jure Segregation." Libraries & the Cultural Record 41, no. 3 (2006): 337-59. www.jstor.org/stable/25549344.
Whitmire, Ethelene. "Breaking the Color Barrier: Regina Andrews and the New York Public Library." Libraries & the Cultural Record42, no. 4 (2007): 409-21. www.jstor.org/stable/25549439.
Welburn, William C. "To "Keep the Past in Lively Memory": William Carl Bolivar's Efforts to Preserve African American Cultural Heritage." Libraries & the Cultural Record 42, no. 2 (2007): 165-79. www.jstor.org/stable/25549403.
History of Libraries:
www.history.com/news/8-impres...
dp.la/exhibitions/history-us-...
www.ala.org/rt/lhrt/popularres... (ALA Works Cited for history of the library)
Reading Publics: New York City’s Public Libraries 1754-1911 Tom Glynn
mentalfloss.com/article/31154/...
Augst, Thomas, and Kenneth Carpenter, eds. Institutions of Reading: The Social Life of Libraries in the United States. University of Massachusetts Press, 2007. www.jstor.org/stable/j.ctt5vk7zt.
Carpenter, Kenneth, and Thomas Augst. ""The History of Libraries in the United States": A Conference Report." Libraries & Culture38, no. 1 (2003): 61-66. www.jstor.org.turing.library.n....
Augst, Thomas. "Introduction: American Libraries and Agencies of Culture." American Studies 42, no. 3 (2001): 5-22. www.jstor.org.turing.library.n....
Goedeken, Edward A. "The Literature of American Library History, 2006-2007." Libraries & the Cultural Record 44, no. 4 (2009): 434-70. www.jstor.org/stable/20720618.
Riedlmayer, András. "Erasing the Past: The Destruction of Libraries and Archives in Bosnia-Herzegovina." Middle East Studies Association Bulletin 29, no. 1 (1995): 7-11. www.jstor.org/stable/23061201.
www.atlasobscura.com/places/t...
www.history.com/topics/invent...
www.businessinsider.com/insid...
www.npr.org/2013/08/01/207272...
Do we still need libraries?:
blog.oup.com/2017/10/history-...
www.ala.org/alcts/confevents/e...
www.forbes.com/sites/quora/20...
www.theatlantic.com/technolog...
qz.com/1039294/millennials-ar...
psmag.com/social-justice/says...
Opinion Pieces (WashPo and NYTimes):
www.washingtonpost.com/opinio...
learning.blogs.nytimes.com/20...
www.nytimes.com/2015/04/24/op...
www.nytimes.com/2015/04/24/ny...
www.nytimes.com/2015/05/06/op...

[@pbsorigins]

This episode marks the first 3 person fan pick episode in the history of Origin of Everything! I’d like to thank Chaeyoung’s Peach and Wowman542 on KZbin and Matt Palka! (who I got to have a vidchat with as part of the perks I gave away for Project for Awesome) who sent in suggestions for this topic. Also special shoutout to Wowman542 for putting me on to Stacks and Facts, an awesome KZbin channel about library science! I'll be hanging out answering questions in the comments for the next hour, so send me your thoughts! -Danielle

[@balthiersgirl2658]

What gets me a lot of Library's in the UK have been closed by the government has that been happening in the us xx

[@reddreds1]

Yes

[@dennisj.isreal8263]

*ISAIAH **7:14** Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. MATTHEW **1:23** Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. ACTS **4:12** Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. REVELATION 12:7-9 And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.*

[@wowman542]

I got my first shoutout! Yay!! Also awesome video!

[@StacksFacts]

*very belated finger guns*

[@kuroazrem5376]

Another reason for public libraries is the fact that it is almost impossible to get free books on the Internet (legally at least)

[@Dantick09]

Fk the police, pirates know what's up

[@hdtaylor1977]

Our libraries provide a lot of digital options that do not cost anything other than what you pay in taxes

[@Revelwoodie]

And also rare, out of print books. A lot of people assume that everything is on the internet. It isn't. Whether you're talking about music, film, or books, the majority of our cultural inheritance has never been digitized. I've never had to do any serious research project that didn't involve getting some out of print book through interlibrary loan.

[@bruhmode3041]

@Internecine Dopamine Thanks for giving more knowledge, I learned about a new project cause of you

[@kaelaleedaley]

I agree that it is difficult to find free ebooks but there are Internet archives that offer books on rental for free. You can typically download a PDF copy or use the site's own ereader. I can highly recommend openlibrary x

[@illizcit1]

WE BETTER NOT THINK ABOUT GETTING RID OF THEM. ANYWHERE! EVER.

[@geekinutopia5899]

We shouldn't get rid of libraries, just privatize them.

[@illizcit1]

@@geekinutopia5899 Why privatize?

[@elaineanderson4891]

Agreed. I go to them.

[@kristysokoloski9089]

@@geekinutopia5899 no to privatizing them. When something is Privatized it becomes more difficult to access due to cost.

[@BruceMagnus]

@@kristysokoloski9089 When something is privatized, quality increases and costs generally go down (of course since public libraries are free, this wouldn't be the case, but a small fee is not a big deal. It would also help get the drug addicts who use it as a place to sleep out of the libraries so people that want to use them for their actual purpose can do so in a safe manner

[@massielvictoria3604]

Haven’t watched the video, but the answer is YES

[@knockhello2604]

Yep.

[@copperlapislazuli4156]

Absolutely

[@jamieshannon9809]

Definitely.

[@littleredflying-fox]

I concur!

[@Purified_Water_Enjoyer]

No

[@shanhussain6114]

Nothing beats the feel of holding and reading a real book. No touchscreen can give you that feeling.

[@srinun2680]

Absolutely

[@ivi122]

I couldn’t agree with you more. I love books, although I haven’t read much lately. I do get books for my 11 year old daughter at the library. She loves books too

[@azar1520]

For textbooks, digital books are better because you can highlight, write notes, and come back to a specific page quickly. For books that you don't have to write lots of notes, regular books are better.

[@shanhussain6114]

@@azar1520 True, but if you're neat with your notes, you could do it on regular books. Think of it like being skilled enough to do motorcycle stunts without a helmet. If you're pro enough, you don't need it. i,e- ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET, but if you're good at it, why not?

[@azar1520]

@@shanhussain6114 And textbooks are heavy, and when you are taking classes, you are supposed to read them everyday, so digital media is better for textbooks. Most classic books are not heavy, do you can just borrow physical books from a library. Most textbooks, however, you cannot get from a library, so it is better to get a digital copy, especially because they are cheaper than the physical version.

[@username-rs4vf]

I would love nighttime libraries

[@LuisGarciaSprout]

Luwachamo I think I should make one.

[@elaineanderson4891]

Me too.

[@zzulm]

Luwachamo 👍 but enough security is needed especially for the restrooms, illegal activities like selling drugs can happen sometimes.

[@elaineanderson4891]

@@zzulm No problem with security is there during the day hours.

[@brysoncherry9884]

The best idea I've heard recently. What a concept. 24/7 access to knowledge to compete with smartphones.

[@rainydaylady6596]

Even though I've been using my tablet to read there are many books that aren't online and won't be reprinted. That's one reason to keep physical libraries open. Also, not everyone has access to the internet. Then there's just something about holding a book. So, YES we still need libraries. 😊

[@rukbat3]

Do you ever check out ebooks from your local library? :)

[@ice2firefly]

rukbat3 I do all the time

[@super-weirdo5219]

The answer is Yes. There is no other answer! Besides, physical books are better than digital ones. I like smelling the books and flipping the pages.

[@biblegirl]

Best smell

[@theutopianoutopioan464]

We definitely should keep libraries, but the government shouldn't be the one running them.

[@randomguy263]

@@theutopianoutopioan464 | Why not? Because they use tax payers money? How other would they get books?

[@speedstacker51]

“Better” is a strong word. What matters is that people read. The format shouldn’t matter

[@walmartpimp2]

I agree with you on libraries being important, but I love my iBooks and detest physical books. Digital books you get updates, you can write notes, you can do word searches, you don't have to worry about storage, or paper cuts, or static electricity or silverfish. You can make the words bigger, smaller, you don't have to worry about needing a sufficient light source. If you come across a word you don't know, you can instantly look it up. I can go on all day.

[@Hallows4]

I’ve worked in a public library system for the past three years, and I’m going to ask my colleagues if we should post this video on our website.

[@pbsorigins]

Thanks so much for sharing it! I owe a big debt to the American Library Association's online bibliography on the history of the library for helping me research this episode. So it's especially cool to think the video could have some use for librarians!

[@Hallows4]

@@lnamethyst1 Most librarian jobs I've seen DO require an MLS degree. Depending on the specific job, you may also need a Public Librarian Certification or some other additional requirement (procedures for obtaining the latter vary on a state-by-state basis).

[@KalRandom]

I live in a very rural area, the local small libraries here have internet access along with books. There are still people without internet at home.

[@Paola-jf2qf]

Yes, we need them to study. We need them so kids, teens and adults can learn the love for reading and knowledge.

[@SnoopyDoofie]

You can do that on your computer. You don't need an out-dated library where false information is engraved in stone and cannot be updated. Libraries are relics of the past and should be put out to pasture. Same goes for public schools.

[@kristysokoloski9089]

@@SnoopyDoofie people still use Libraries. Not everyone can do it on a computer.

[@Yelrebmikkim]

@@SnoopyDoofie having old books can be useful for tertiary (college/university) students for studying the historiography of a historical event; as well as how ideas, and science has changed over time. Obviously, you still need access to modern literature.

[@Yelrebmikkim]

@Brother Jake's Konservative Evolution perhaps most students can do group assessments at home, but not everyone has the same space in their homes, or they could have family members doing shift work. Obviously, I love working at the library.

[@Yelrebmikkim]

Yes Paola! I love it when older people share their experience with me. It is just lovely.

[@Revelwoodie]

It's not a matter of whether we "need" libraries. It's about whether we want them. And we should. Because a library is not just a place where information is stored on shelves. And it's more even than a shared space for the community. Public institutions are, in part, a statement about what we value as a culture. When we see beautiful libraries in the center of our towns, it reminds us that learning is a common good, and something to be valued. I don't want to lose that.

[@catherineking2751]

They are needed. They fill a social and educational need.

[@queenofdramatech]

As a librarian I LOVE this video. Libraries are SO necessary. They also serve as emergency spaces in times of crisis as well. In my community we were the only space with power, heat, and toilets when a winter storm ravaged the area and left kids out of school for a week. We scheduled programing and things to do so the kids would not be bored and the parents could worry about what was for dinner or where to go to sleep. We are SO ESSENTIAL!

[@viridianstar]

Yup. Power outage during a heatwave in my childhood meant the only shelter in my community was the library. Still grateful, and now I’m cultivating my daughter’s love for the library too. 🥰

[@YoungRonnyKl7]

Yeah nice one and it was **SO STUPID** instead of SO ESSENTIAL the days are gone, bro, and as a NORMAL PERSON *librarians* are damn mean im like helping my homie and shes just yelling WTF

[@peteratkinson922]

@@YoungRonnyKl7 What's a homie? The library is shut at the moment so I thought I might ask you.

[@allengainzmma]

@@YoungRonnyKl7 You were probably being loud with your friend if you put attention on yourself to the point an employee talked to you about it. I have done the same exact thing and I told myself I did nothing wrong until I sat back and thought about the people who truly need libraries because they can’t afford to have internet, textbooks for whatever profession they’re trying to get into, or a peaceful quiet place to get away from whatever they might be dealing with in life. When you’re in a place like that you have to take everyone else into consideration and if the employee is just flat out mean you can write a complaint or find a library (trust me they’re everywhere) that treats you and your friend better. I was not with you guys so I have no clue what happened but I hope what I said makes you think a little more about how to handle those situations and respect for helping your friend study it’s worth more to him than you guys know.

[@erikamccreary2614]

I agree. I have a public library that is just down the street from my apartment building. I just got a library card and I can walk there whenever I want and borrow books or dvds or use the internet.

[@PaperPlateClorox]

Yes. Because I still need a place to get lost when life gets stressful.

[@hdtaylor1977]

Nichole libraries are my happy place. I can go and just sit. Being surrounded by all those books gives me peace

[@almel4949]

Nichole honestly same I like to go and get educated and interested in stuff I never I knew about and sort of get lost and forget about rough times at home

[@roseeze166]

EXACTLY

[@JanBartnik]

As a library worker (not a librarian per se, you need proper education to become a librarian in Poland... I just lend books, audiobooks and movies to people :) ) I would point out that libraries nowadays are a lot more than just books. They are often hackerspaces, internet caffees, cultural centers, workshops, book clubs, gaming clubs, RPG clubs, schools. We also organize lessons for kids, computer courses for digitally excluded and even go biking on camping trips with patrons. And that might be only 10% of what we do extra ;)

[@5pctLowBattery]

I’m at the library once a month getting books for my 4th graders book talk projects. I see many study groups, and children area activity at the library. He Prefers reading actual books than ebooks, while I enjoy the library’s free audiobooks on overdrive.

[@lorddalloway6477]

Libraries are still needed, they are not just about books, but information. Libraries are one of the few institutions who offer acces to data bases, which generally are restricted beacuse of they are very expensive to individuals, not to mention great majority of people don't know how to use them.

[@johannaandrade6652]

My son, my daughter and I basically live at the library. We're there almost everyday at my son's insistence. There is so much to do there for everyone.

[@MarkFilipAnthony]

Libraries are important because it represents that knowledge is a human right for everyone

[@joreyn7656]

Haven't even watched the video yet, but yes. Yes we do.

[@sunchi11]

But library id not important as living a happy life as u only live once

[@Caterfree10]

I will fight to keep libraries open forever. I learned how to crochet at my local library and there are tons of different classes such as various computer programs and ASL. I just wish audiobook publishing companies would give libraries better rates to purchase audiobooks. I recently found out they’re outrageously expensive compared to, say, an Audible credit, and will often expire after so many checkouts or after a certain amount of time. It’s such bullshit. We don’t fuss over that with paper books! Goddamn.

[@rockinbobokkin7831]

I love my local library, and it serves a vital part of my community. We have workshops and it's a safe place for kids. My particular neighborhood is mixed race and working class. Places like our library help keep some of these kids from going down a bad road. They have a place to get their schoolwork done, lots of comic books, guest speakers....and it's nice in there. And you should see it...it's really nice, and the kids actually go there. They love it. We have a lot of retirees too. It's just a really good mix.

[@evilotto9200]

If even a single potential of unilateral censorship exists for the collective of digital media, physical copies of literature and learning must remain a necessity. Less apocalyptic, libraries have comfy chairs and AC and are a welcome respite from family.

[@FlutterMouse]

There was an episode of Ghost in the Shell that discussed that very issue. A hard copy book of only a few copies had been digitized but modified to push a certain agenda. Only those who read the hard copy book knew what the book actually said.

[@Bookspine5]

@@FlutterMouse In the novel Snow Crash, the idea of the library was almost forgotten.

[@Cobralalalala]

Our library rarely has fewer than 20 people inside at any given time. It's wonderful, and one of the things they've done to keep people coming has been to add seating to hang out, and to greatly expand the graphic novel section (which is amazing). I really need to pay my fines so I can get some more stuff soon. :P

[@Cae_the_Kitsune]

I work for a public library and can vouch for the fact that it gets a TON of usage. Things get significantly backed up quite frequently.

[@Rosie018]

Absolutely we need libraries. Just today I went to the library with my son. He got to eat a free lunch, signed him up for the summer reading program, and checked out several books about the Boy Scouts that I didn’t know existed. Also got a calendar of activities for the summer. Like art classes, movie days, and steam activities. Best part is it’s all free. I’m a single mom who doesn’t get paid till the end of summer, so I’m always looking for free activities for my son to do during the summer so he doesn’t get stuck watching tv all day. He can even play with the toys they have there now and play educational computer games, and it’s all air conditioned. At my library we can even check out telescopes. The library is the best thing ever during summer. The library is the best thing all year.

[@BuddhistFrog]

Honestly, I used to just sit in my local libraries for hours after school. I just love the smell and the peace.

[@New_Wave_Nancy]

Public libraries in the US have long been a vital bridge for new immigrants to learn English and connect to their new community. Libraries are so much more than books! (Former librarian here.) Public libraries in the US provide internet access, museum passes, streaming online video, ebooks, e audiobooks, cultural performances and programs, movie nights, etc. No matter how rich or poor you are, the library provides a vast array of information.

[@JamesBond-xx1lv]

I've never seen a library without internet, printing, community rooms, ect... Nothing I cant get at home. Even though I have absolutely zero use for libraries, I'd still be one of the first people out there protesting if my local one closed. They're pretty important.

[@sirmeowthelibrarycat]

James Bond 😖 I take it that you were able to afford all of the technology you possess from your own finances? That you are fully capable of using them and keeping them updated? But wait - what about those who are not as advanced as you in these areas? Ah, yes! THE LIBRARY with the equipment you mention available at no purchase cost but only modest copying and printing. How egalitarian of a society! One passing thought - what might you do if your technology failed during some item of significance and repairs were costly? Just a thought, given the somewhat harsh tone of ‘absolutely zero use for libraries ‘ . . . !

[@JamesBond-xx1lv]

Sir Meow The Library Cat I have straight talk that I pay $60 a month for that I use for internet, I'm unsociable as hell, and on the off chance I need to print something my grandma has a printer. I don't like fiction and I got Google for everything else. My finances? I make $9.50 an hour at a gas station. I'm not rolling in it lol I just take care of the little bit of things I have. But, while I don't personally have a use for libraries, if a bulldozer was in front of one my ass would jump in front of it so they couldn't take it down. Idk, I guess my point is, I care about my community. On the off chance of an apocalyptic power event though, yeah, I'd go to a damn library.

[@DarkReapersGrim]

People think libraries are just for kids, nope, when I was looking for a job, I went to my local library to fill out and print documents. Also, they benefit society by enhancing knowledge and ideas, not just literacy.

[@PopnPlayerJazine]

I helped out at my high school library all the time. A decade later I am close friends with my high school librarian and libraries are still one if my favorite places to be. It is so relaxing and provides you access to so many resources.

[@kristencalderon94]

Library hang-outs sound BOMB! Sign me up!!....after Covid is over...

[@thejourney1369]

I certainly hope so! I’ve spent countless hours working with a friend on our church library. We had someone donate 1200 books to start one. I love your dress Danielle!

[@theutopianoutopioan464]

Organizations like religious groups and charities are really the ones meant to be operating libraries, NOT the government!

[@itiswhatitis1080]

Yes we need libraries some of us still like a quiet space to actually read books and people can study

[@qpSubZeroqp]

This channel is so underrated! High quality information here. Thank you!

[@BothHands1]

I love the idea of late night library hangouts

[@pbsorigins]

Send out the invite and I'll be there!

[@eliscanfield3913]

I love it too. My local library closes at 9. Maybe I'll go now and leave the husband with the kids

[@_Super_Hans_]

hanging out with friends reading a book is the same as hanging with them and reading your phone, reading itself isn't a social activity, that's why libraries are supposed to be quiet

[@_Super_Hans_]

@2080 Why is it... what is your argument against it?

[@jeanaquin]

I come from a long line of librarians and I was practically raised in a library (my mom and grandma were both librarians!) so I have a passion for defending public libraries. They are amazing resources, and I use mine every few weeks to check out new books. Other than books, they also provide free entertainment and services for everyone. They also have access to technology for those who might not otherwise be able to afford it. Go out and support your public library! ❤️

[@MH-nt5me]

Yes we do! My husband and I gave actually started to use our library on a regular basis in the past few months and there are always people there. It gives people access to books, movies, internet, etc. that they may night be able to afford otherwise. It's just part of our routine now. Libraries in Arizona also have seed libraries where you can get three varieties of seeds for your garden every month. Plus, discounted tickets to museums and theaters every month.

[@daltonallen7625]

love my local library

[@derlinclaire1778]

Me too.

[@harasen_haras5]

There's something about physically going somewhere to do a task that feels right.

[@maalikserebryakov]

Its how we evolved after all. The brain enjoys associating location with Purpose

[@amandalewis5162]

We really do need libraries! In fact, when I was a toddler back in the early 90s, I was diagnosed with a speech problem. The one thing that helped me in speaking was not just speech therapy, but also going to the library to read books! And surprisingly enough, I was really good at reading even with the developmental delay! And ever since then, I got a college degree in Library Science! Take libraries away and, children like myself in the early days, will not get the same help I got!

[@amylizbrarian]

I’m currently working towards my masters degree in library and information science. “Speaking as a completely objective third party observer with absolutely no personal interest in the matter”, there are a lot of things libraries and librarians do for society that people often don’t realize. Information literacy, or the skills to evaluate and use information, is an important part of librarians’ roles as teachers. School librarians (meaning those who work in K-12) have been one of the first groups to go during budget cuts, either being removed all together or replaced with someone who doesn’t have certification or formal library education. Fast forward a few years and everyone is complaining about kids not being able to recognize “fake news” or believing everything they see/hear on the internet, not recognizing that school librarians were the ones teaching those critical evaluation skills. I teach undergraduates how to research and while some of them come in with these skills, most either feel like growing up with google means they can figure it out themselves/can’t be fooled (they really can’t - ask freshman composition professors) or are terrified of all academic research and writing and want someone to put every information source in a black & white category (“wikipedia is bad”, “encyclopedias are good”, etc.). At the university level, I usually get them for one or two workshops. If i’m lucky, they’ll ask librarians for help when they need it. As great as individual teachers, TAs, and professors are, they can’t know everything and few (if any) have the time to keep up on their own subject matter AND research/evaluation skills (beyond what they personally use). And I haven’t even touched on the resources libraries provide! Electronic access to academic journals and ebooks/eaudiobooks is EXPENSIVE. Even if people don’t use our physical books/magazines/newspapers/movies/music, subscriptions and licenses are pricy and honestly a bit of a nightmare to navigate. If you want to spend your own money on books/movies/music/magazines/newspapers that’s fine, but no one should have to settle for unreliable information online or not be able to read books they want to just because they can’t afford to buy everything. Other (more public library-centric) services people don’t think about: internet/computer access and assistance, free classes (learning computer skills, job hunt/resume/interview skills, where to get help with taxes, etc.), printers/copiers/fax machines, supplemental education programs for kids, free meeting space for all, book clubs, movie screenings, interesting lectures/discussions by professionals that you don’t have to pay for, arts/crafts, social events, and all of the non-book things libraries allow you to borrow (musical instruments, cameras, computers/tablets, toys, wifi hotspots, etc.) or provide for in-building use (charging stations, maker spaces with 3D printers and sewing machines, etc.) ((bonus points if you recognize the quote at the beginning!))

[@ducklingscap897]

As a fellow library and information science I can only agree. As for the quote the movie "She is the man" has that sentence. It was one of my favorite childhood movies. But I guess they got that quote somewhere else.

[@charlenejo2490]

Welcome to the MLIS club. Did/ do you attend the iSchool program at SJSU? Your name seems familiar.

[@amylizbrarian]

@@charlenejo2490 ​ I graduated from the iSchool at UIUC in May 2020! Currently job searching (in this economy?!) and I've been attending lots of webinars and online conferences (Critical Librarianship & Pedagogy Symposium, LIS Pedagogy Chats, Fan Studies Network North America, Camp GLA...) though, so you may recognize my name from those? Your name seems familiar too, but I'm hopeless at remembering where I know people from - feel free to DM me (@amylizbrarian on twitter) if you want to chat LIS! :)

[@ivi122]

YES! We need libraries. I love ❤️ libraries!

[@lilanthia]

This was such an interesting video, thank you for making it! I love libraries for a pretty "selfish" reason, they save me a TON of money. Instead of buying books (which I love to do but, ya know, bills.) I can borrow and read whatever I want for free, it's very liberating 😅😅

[@chris92S]

Yes, it's one of the only free places I can think of on our society where you can go and sit. Everything else has a pay wall lol

[@MateoQuixote]

A problem that we're having out here in Los Angeles in that many libraries have turned into unofficial homeless shelters which has deterred people away. Now before anyone attacks, let me say I fully understand that homeless people have the right to be there just as much as I do, there's no set rules that you must be studying, doing research, or reading a book to use the space; it's a free public open space as stated in the video. But now these libraries out here are so uninviting because they stink, they're slowly becoming dirty, often times these people will be talking loudly and aggressively to themselves, and just the other day I saw some clipping their toenails... inside the library. It's so sad because I cannot think of a single solution other than to stop going to the library.

[@barkley013]

I just finished an essay this semester regarding this exact topic which included interviews with a retired public librarian and a current senior public librarian. They explained the ongoing need for public academic (peer reviewed) resources and the introduction of community needs social space. Amazing topic!

[@taxdragon]

Also, iwhen we are faced with an EMP (electromagnetic pulse), hard copy, dead tree books, will have all that information safely in libraries.

[@willmunoz360]

Yes, we need libraries open!!!❤️❤️❤️👏💪🤔

[@basedcataphract5852]

The atmosphere is great, the smell **heavenly**, the aesthetic **_*MAJESTICAL_*

[@allimba]

Libraries are absolutely positively still essential to our fabric of society and to democracy. Libraries are so much more than just a building with books, they provide much needed services for our communities and safe places to go.

[@mariano2078]

I love the smell of Books and the smell of libraries

[@Wahey]

Yes we do. Libraries are brilliant. Sadly they're closing down all the time but luckily there are still a couple left in the town where I live. I once borrowed a book on Time Travel and returned it in 1482.

[@karentucker2161]

I still love going to the library. You can find some books that you won't find in the store (maybe an antique or thrift store if you're lucky).

[@solomonclass]

My local library had a complete factory service manual for my truck, its technical bible. The same FSM has been uploaded to the internet and can be downloaded for free, perks of owning an old vehicle I guess. Libraries are great but the internet is also. One thing that makes a library greater is the elimination of virtual middlemen, and ISP's. Just as libraries of yore served as dogma factories the convenient content of the internet is being not so subtly curated by business interests.

[@donnahenley7866]

Definitely, we still need libraries. Thanks for this video.

[@lekeAchgeketum]

I'm all in for the library club idea!! (I live in Philadelphia.)

[@ThatLadyDray]

Knowledge is power & one of the great equalizers. Knowledge ALONE can often change EVERYTHING in a person's life which trickles into society. Especially with the extreme financial gaps, we need libraries almost as much as air, food, & water.

[@cindygiesbrecht3146]

My city has more than a dozen public libraries and build a really fancy new one that's BEAUTIFUL! I love all libraries.

[@komalahayes1535]

As a straight up Ravensclaw, libraries aren't just places for books.They're a valuable free public space to meet and learn. Digital literacy, workshops, local programs are IMPORTANT! I heard Amazon or some other company would like to close libraries and have books delivered BY MAIL. HORRIBLE!!! They also serve as social places as well. And...I love to touch and smell and read books. Books: THE ORIGINAL KINDLE. 😁

[@warriorswarriors8493]

Yes we need libraries. Libraries provide a safe haven space to learn and think to read amazing stories while physically able to hold and turn the pages of a real book. Libraries help keep you in tune with live people . You have clubs and many items one can get just with a plastic card. Libraries are an awesome place for those who can’t afford everyday luxuries or just rather save money . It helps many cultures of all ages and walks of life. Yes !!! Yes !!! Keep the LIBRARIES !!!

[@DavidJones-tp7td]

Definitely yes! While the internet does offer data on any subject one could wish, the sources are so numerous that it is easy to get lost. I worked as the assistant librarian in a small college and the students with the best GPAs were often found in that library. Okay, so most of them were using the internet there, all of them needed assistance in finding reliable information at some point. The internet does not distinguish fact from fiction, search engines use popularity of the material to organize the listings, and people often don't quite know how to phrase there querry. Libraries need to make some changes, but are still contributing to the development of communities.

[@Yukosan13]

These days public libraries have gone digital too..my local libraries has several apps and you use your library card number to sign in and check out audiobooks and ebooks.. it's really awesome because your not paying any late fees and it's really easy to put it on your phone or tablet.. so I've just been eat up book after book. Seriously, library may not be necessary but I want them to stick around. Cuz even if I'm into digital books.. nothing can replace the wonderful feeling and smell of the real deal pages and all. 😍👍

[@servant74]

How about talking about the Library of Congress and it's mission and relevance. I love your channel.

[@mugglescakesniffer3943]

All you need to do is watch that one episode from Star Trek Enterprise where Archer is in the future and realize the importance of keeping books and the written word. The internet can go down but physical books on how to rebuild things or how to survive and other things that would define or keep a society out of a dark ages would be very valuable. And all that knowledge should be kept in as many places as possible. (See the Foundation series)

[@ruffey1748]

I was in a coding course the other day, and the instructor scoffed when I said was due to study an MSc in Library Sciences. "Computers replaced libraries," he said. That's funny, because almost every borough in my city has at least one public library. Sure it may be chronically underfunded, but public libraries have by and large accepted an evolving role as a social service, not just a lender of books.

[@liawatson5789]

YES! Digital hard drives become demagnetised after about 10 years so analog books are needed.

[@Waynaworld]

I’m addicted to listening to her speak.

[@pbsorigins]

thanks for watching!

[@fanOmry]

Still hadn't reached the 00:30 mark. So this was probably addressed. But I'll say it anyway because I feel very passionate about it. 1. Not everyone have internet. Even in their phone. 2. Not Everyone have a communication device. 3. In light of 1+2.. Poor people exist. And libraries are essential in giving these people access to that Knowlege. 4. Some oeople have an online job. But their home was robbed. Or any other analogues misfortune. For these people. The Library allows them their access to their Proffession. 5. It's a value marketplace. People meet there. Be it a party.. Or Tutoring. You can even talk Business. Just don't bother others. In short. A Library is essential to a communitys well being.

[@traceford4904]

There's so many resources at libraries. My local library has a 3d printer something I cannot afford that I plan on using for art purposes.

[@jennywaldensi4868]

As a military brat and then a military wife, I found the local library a welcoming, familiar place. While it is true that the Internet provides some rare/out-of-print, etc. books, the local library offers immediate access to a quiet place to think, study, relax and even read for pleasure. Not only do I believe we "still need libraries", I see the growth of the "Little Free Library" movement as a promotion of literacy, community sharing, and neighborly caring for one another. It does not negate the importance of the large local library, but can enhance it. Book mobiles are wonderful, and should have more financial support. Many work long hours and find it difficult to get to a library after they are off (hence: the idea mentioned above as a social-gathering library). People share their favorite books in Little Free Libraries -- and some of those books are not particularly welcomed in many public libraries. Churches have often had little libraries, as do private schools. These also are supportive to the education and edification of its people. These too may have materials not found in local public libraries. The "politically correct" movement affects Friends of the Library groups, who have cleansed many public libraries across the U.S. of books for over 30 years now. Books that extol the "traditional family" (Dad who works and is married to Mom, who either works/volunteers only part time so she can be there for the children when they get home from school, and provide a good meal for the whole family, etc.), conservative Christian books, etc. are generally not welcomed in most public libraries. Another good reason for conservative people to be involved in the provision of good books into the local public library, church library, school library and/or Little Free Library.

[@gyomeihimejima2829]

As someone who is well versed in fashion, I gotta say the host's sense of fashion is magical. The locket just makes everything better.

[@ALWH1314]

Library is still a great knowledge source. I read mostly on my iPad, but what I access is limited to what I know, library displays and introduces me to what I don’t know and allow me to explore new and unknown further altering going home.

[@enduringbird]

The libraries around me are ALWAYS full. I'm a private tutor and I met students there often. Sometimes it's hard to even get a table. It's mostly children, teens, and seniors. They run all kinds of programs like art exhibitions, read aloud events for children, free classes, etc. My mother in law takes her grandchildren to the library at least twice per week for events. I guess if you think of lib creators only as repositories of old paper, then, yeah, they're no longer needed. But libraries are so much more than that!

[@Crystale17]

Yes we still need libraries. There is a difference btw wisdom and information.

[@dfk09]

We absolutely still need them! Those in power know the power of books that's why they would like them destroyed and books burned. It's a shame I don't go to the library as much as I used to. I remembered being really sad when I found out that they cut the hours for my local library. They would keep a lot of kids out of trouble...

[@evropakhan1137]

The fact is, libraries are one of humanities greatest inventions and will stand the test of time plus there's something special about holding a physical book with its smell and feel while a e-book just doesn't have that.

[@knw-seeker6836]

thanks a lot for the great documentary and fantastic hosts who are authentic and charisma + without a monotone voice

[@bethconklin7160]

Love you! Your topics are great. Libraries are important and a key to keeping our social history alive. Thank you for this video

[@hdtaylor1977]

Richland Library in South Carolina is wonderful. I love my library. They have books galore. The main library in downtown Columbia is not only functional it is beautiful. It stimulates the mind. The art displayed is a gift to the public. Also being in a modern age the digital options are perfect.

[@sandykl]

She has such a refreshing and bubbly energy. I really like her energy!!! Good to see new voices even though this video is 3 years old! I just found it. 🙌🏼💙

[@danielnewhouse5044]

Getting your own local library card and checking books out with your own card enhances your tustworthiness.

[@carolyperez8075]

Thanks for this episode! Libraries are important spaces where youth have a safe space and adults have free access to technology and materials. Life long learning is important! Fyi this years US summer reading theme is about Space in honor of the moon landing. Thanks for helping me to be a lifelong learner! 😁

[@1sirmone]

before i even watch the video. yes. i use our public library often. i still turn pages. our library is actually very awesome here. i love your videos too

[@LinhLe-wq8zk]

Of course we do! Many thanks Danielle and your friend for saying it loud and right!!

[@rainyrainold]

Thanks for reminding me I have to pay my late fees. Evelyn has such a sweet voice and face. Also some libraries have much more than just books. They sometimes have art pieces, tools, and even 3D printing. I think the public library should definitely stay available for people who would otherwise never be able to benefit from those things.

[@dannyflo5373]

Thank you for dropping this valuable information in my head. You gals are awesome!

[@cjthibeau4843]

Woah, who knew libraries had such a long, intricate, and interesting history! Can't wait to see what you teach us about next!!

[@em8842]

Libraries are basically the only remaining public social space that everyone can access freely without the expectation of spending money. We have access to a ton of free resources, we can help every kind of person with most anything they need help with. We also provide free access to books and journals, yes, but also online resources, e-books, audiobooks, music, movies, games, streaming, ets. We work with schools, daycares, nursing homes, NGOs, shelters, youth groups, you name it, to provide services to combat everything from illiteracy to loneliness. We arrange events, debates, festivals, activities for all ages, we help students, we teach. We are a warm, safe place to go where nothing is expected of you (except for normal good behavior ofc.). We are the single biggest national institution of culture (in my country at least). I'm biased of course, but I think libraries are absolutely vital.

[@bane3991]

I use libraries but all bias aside, they're just not good. 99.999 percent of people do not use them but are forced to pay for them. Many times the libraries don't have the books I want so I end up buying them online anyway. I might get use out of them but that doesn't mean others do. Many books have been sitting on the shelves for years and never checked out once. There are more staff members in there than patrons. The money we use in taxes to fund it can be used elsewhere in the economy according to the demand of the public. The idea of a library is great I definitely don't disagree. But in practical use, not at all. It's just not an in demand service. It's a misallocation of resources.

[@em8842]

@@bane3991 I respectfully disagree - in my country at least, libraries are able to get books to you from any public or university library in the country if we don't have it on our own shelves. And libraries are highly in demand - for physical books, but also for all of their other services as well as for being community centres. It's money well spent - a British study mapped the social and economic value of libraries to their communities (libraries lift social welfare tasks that would otherwise have to be lifted elsewere, like increasing literacy in children, increasing digital literacy, providing all sorts of free resources for people in need, for the elderly or for students, helping with education, creating strong communities for people and decreasing loneliness, etc., etc.) and concluded that each library was worth six times it's operating costs, or around 3,4 billion british pounds annually across them all.

[@em8842]

@@bane3991 This is the study: www.librariesconnected.org.uk/sites/default/files/Libraries%20for%20Living%2C%20and%20for%20Living%20Better.pdf

[@Iamso4u]

Although I don’t frequent the physical library as much as I’d like, I routinely utilize their online offerings such as digital check out of Ebooks and audiobooks. It’s a service I hope only grows.

[@suhanisharma6436]

Being a dystopian fan, I leant that humans and books share an emotional and social bond which is hard to express. I acknowledge the nature conservation aspect of this argument too(that books use up a lot of paper) so I think owning of private books can be limited and sharing them as in case of a library is the most ideal solution to cater to both the opinions.

[@annah.3751]

People would lose so much if libraries were phased out! The library in my community is invaluable - classes for adults on various subjects, internet access for those who can’t afford it, regular activities for kids and adult, free tax help, private rooms for tutoring, I could go on and on.

[@Bren-ms3ml]

we do need libraries ..when i was 8 years old i had this desperate desire to learn ..i thank everyday for libraries..

[@luannnelson547]

Thanks for this excellent video. Our local library hosts free tax-preparation services, many children’s activities such as story times and LEGO building groups, and a state history room where there are many resources not easily available elsewhere. For instance, the “back room” contains unique resources such as the ledgers of long-gone businesses; you can go to the library and do research into the history of many iconic homes and business that includes how much the lumber cost to build them back in 1910.

[@wavesofwoodenlegs]

You are on point with everything in regards to this topic, especially about libraries experiencing slashed budgets. I work at a public library, in which the librarians are not told how much they have left in their budget until the end of the fiscal year. As a result, they order a lot more materials than what they usually do to maintain that budget for the next year. If they didn't do this, the Board of Trustees would decrease our budget, assuming that if we don't spend a lot, then we don't need a whole lot.

[@DrewLonmyPillow]

I can see libraries providing a space for gathering that are not necessarily accustomed to loud, noisy, alcohol filled environments. Tabletop games, role playing games, activities that are better done with multiple people but that your average person may not have the space for in their apartment or home. It would also facilitate strangers meeting up to do these things who have met only on the internet. It's kinda difficult to find pick up games of D&D or Cyberpunk 2020.

[@elaineanderson4891]

Libraries are so helpful to everyone neighborhood. In Chicago has 80. It has helped so many people who felt down in society. People will come to use computers and read for knowledge.

[@Kallistaable]

I use the library to get books for my kindle! Even though I’m not going in it’s a great resource that makes reading affordable for avid readers.

[@shirleyncesar]

It pains me to think that this is even a question..

[@francescakyanda9182]

I grew up loving the library and recently got a job there, it's a great place to sit and charge your phone, use the computers, get some water and air conditioning and the kids in the area love the storytimes