Ok, so we're all on the same page on this one, right? The Library lets you take their books away - FOR FREE - read them, and then bring them back. Common knowledge, right?
Wrong.
Imagine my utter flabbergastedness when a 25 year-old co-worker asked "For free?" when I was describing the items I had recently borrowed.
"Um. Yes," I replied, "That's sort of their whole deal."
To be fair, my colleague then blushed and backtracked. "I know, I know! I just didn't know they had movies, too!"
Still, aside from understanding the concept of a public library, I have found that very many of my peers NEVER darken their doors. So I have to ask myself, "Why not?"
To a certain extent, I understand the pleasure of building a personal collection of your very favourite books. Ones you'll read again and again.
But for the most part, I have to go with Seinfeld on this one: "What do you need them for, after you read them?"
Now I know the library isn't EXACTLY free. I do pay taxes.
But it remains a very special pleasure - entering, perusing, choosing, and then borrowing for a while, all on the basis of trust.
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You know...I get all my books from the library. Not only can I not afford a lot of books, but I don't really have anywhere to put them. The only time I buy is if I've read it at least twice and know I will again, or if a favourite author has come out with something new and I just can't wait.
ReplyDeleteMy librarians greet me by name and are always happy to see me as I frequent the place so much...and I usually have at least 3 books on hold waiting for me. RI has a great system, you request a book and it'll come for you from any library in the state. I can always get what I want and they're always current with new books.
So last wednesday I went to the library to return a few things, and it was closed!! Apparently the mayor has cut $200 000 from the library budget, the library is now only open 4 days a week and they've suspended purchasing new items :( I wish I was a millionaire so I could donate and keep them running! Glad my hubby didn't vote for him >:(
Wow, that's so sad. It's something I worry about when I look around my local library and notice only a few young people. We've got to use it or lose it, right?
ReplyDeleteThank you, Sarah, for being the very first person ever to comment on this, my virgin blog! As a fellow book-lover, I've got to say that your blog is AMAZING! I can't wait to go out (to the library, of course) and check out some of your suggestions...everybody, check out Sarah's blog at http://sarahbenn.wordpress.com