The importance of local libraries

Today I'm going to address a topic of discussion that's very important to me: local libraries. Ever since I was little, I looked forward to going to the library with my mom and picking out books and movies to check out. I didn't have cable growing up so my main source of fun was cracking open a book or popping in a VHS to watch. As an adult I still go to my local library (the same one when I was little!) every couple of weeks or so. Even for non-readers, your local library is still a great source to utilize. I'm complied a list of the five ways local libraries are important to the community.

Books, music, DVDs for low-income families

I live in a small, rural area that has a high (more than 50%) rate of poverty. My family didn't have a lot of money growing up, so I definitely went to the library whenever I could. It's not only books that families can borrow, but also CDs and DVDs.

Programs that foster and promote reading to local youths

All the libraries in my area have a summer reading program for children; I'm sure the libraries in big cities have this as well. These programs help promote literature to local youth, and there are often similar programs for adults. Instead of children staying inside watching TV all day, families can opt to go to their local library and help develop their child's reading habit.

Internet/printing access for those without it

I know it seems like everyone has internet, whether it be a computer, phone, or tablet/iPad. Yet, there's still a portion of the population that doesn't, such as those who have been laid off and need to look for work or those who need to print out an essay for school. Additional services libraries provide are copying and sending/receiving fax messages.

Large print books/Audiobooks for those with little or no eyesight

For those with poor and/or no eyesight, libraries also provide large print novels, books on CD and audiobooks. Advances in technology have led to audiobooks being available on a patron's personal reading device, such as iPad or Kindle, through a variety programs - ie Overdrive, Libby.

Genealogical & local research

The last item on my list is genealogical research. Libraries can be a great source for those trying to research their family trees. Local newspapers are often available on microfilm at libraries. I've used microfilm myself several times for my job at a newspaper, and I've also taken calls at work from people asking how they can get a copy of a really old issue for whatever reason, whether it be a major event from that period or an obituary.