Header image
Local library

Our Most Forgotten Local Resource: The Library

Posted on by Tolu

Why did we forget about the library? This year I told myself that I was going to make an effort towards patronizing my local libraries. My goal took a very slow start at the beginning of this year, but I’ve been making progress this summer, and it’s been so amazing.

I love reading, but with my current financial status, I can’t continue to buy books as often. Adding to my collection always brings me joy, but I must put this hobby on the back burner for now. Because of this, my hometown library has become a new favorite of mine this summer. Before this year, I hadn’t checked out a book from there in years. Thus, when I went searching in the stacks, I was quite shocked at how up-to-date the collection was. I found so many books that I’ve been wanting to read for years as well as new releases I didn’t think would be in stock yet.

In addition to regular fiction and nonfiction books, the library had cookbooks, ebooks, magazines, 3D printing, and more. There were just so many resources at my fingertips that I didn’t realize were available in the first place.

When I go to the library, there’s a certain way that I prepare, so that I don’t get overwhelmed by the rows and rows of books. First, I pull up my ‘Want to Read’ list on Goodreads alongside my library’s online catalog. Then, I use the catalog to search for books I want to read. If the book is available, I write down its collection and shelf location. I do this so that when I go to the library I know where to find the books. If the book is really popular, I’ll put it on hold. One big difference between libraries and bookstores is that bookstores are more filtered. They typically only carry the most popular titles while libraries generally have a much wider selection. It’s a lot harder to browse aimlessly like you would in a bookstore. This is why I come in with a plan.

Library Catalog
What I look for in the Library Catalog

Right now, there’s a lot of uncertainty within not just the federal government, but in our state and local governments as well. Many lawmakers aren’t acting with their constituents’ best interests in mind, and so we all need to support the publicly owned resources in our communities such as libraries while we still can. Hopefully, with continued support from communities, local lawmakers will maintain funding for libraries. Additionally, with the current uncertainty in the government, it’s important we all try to actively read and learn more. There are so many people in power that are trying to rewrite history and erase important stories that shape the US and world. Take the opportunity to read and learn about these stories while they’re still in print.

Thank you all for reading this week’s post. I hope it encourages you to support your local library. Libraries help foster our love of learning and introduce us to new stories and ideas, so use them. Make sure to subscribe to be notified of new posts. Stay sharp 😉

Category: Culture, Life

66 thoughts on “Our Most Forgotten Local Resource: The Library”

Comments are closed.