The Future of Libraries Shows Promise [OPINION]

Libraries have been a staple in world history since the very beginning. Some could go as a far as saying that the drawings on caves were the first libraries created. Libraries have provided a place for people to come learn and explore through reading. As time has gone on and technology has advanced the need for libraries has decreased because of the easily accessible opportunities on phones and computers. However, this doesn’t mean the end for libraries because even though their original purpose is being used less frequently they are still just as important as they were before.

The Future for Libraries is still bright and unlimited. They are a piece of history that should not be forgotten or neglected. Libraries do so much to provide for their communities and the people who need help the most.

Students and scholars still utilize libraries because they are a quiet place to get work done. Libraries are meant to be used as a place where everyone can sit down and not worry about people socializing loudly around them or outside factors that may distract them. Usually the library is extremely packed on college campuses and in academic areas because that is a place where everyone with a similar mindset can go.

Students also have access to other resources that are easier to use in person than online. When writing papers or doing research, finding articles and sources can be tricky or difficult and at a library there is always a person on staff who can help. They are able to help lead a student through an online database or find a book that might help them get the information they need.

Libraries also offer tutoring and personalized help on assignments and other work that students may be struggling with. This is not only beneficial for the students receiving the tutoring but also for students who are learning to be teachers and educators. It is sometimes easier to get help from someone close in age rather than someone that is difficult to relate to.

Libraries not only offer resources to students and scholars but the entire community. As previously stated, libraries are normally quiet and studious but for kids it is a great place to learn and socialize. There are reading groups and challenges that inspire kids to continue reading and explore different genres and for little kids help them take their first steps in learning how to read.

There are games and activities all throughout the summer that keep kids active and moving. It helps kids avoid sitting inside all day in front of screens and keeps their minds active and their fun level increasing. They are great places for kids on rainy days when normal summer or winter activities are impossible to do.

Many libraries create reading scavenger hunts that last for weeks at a time or have specific days of the week that are themed after certain book characters. Without libraries these opportunities would be harder to find and often more expensive.

Libraries also allow for media and text to be public which is helpful for people who may not be able to afford these resources otherwise. Libraries aren’t only for finding books or reading but since computers have become so crucial it is a place for people to come and use the technology they may not have access to at home.

Kids, students and adults who don’t have easy access to their own computers or other forms of media benefit from the libraries free and public access. It can help them apply for jobs, do better in school and give them the opportunity to gain skills that will help them in the future.

Libraries are not limited in activities and hold events for adults like workshops to build resumes, community service and volunteer work and book clubs. It gives people of the community a chance to better themselves and get involved in social settings.

Libraries can be seen as outdated and losing relevant but if anything, libraries are evolving with the community. They are adding and changing factors that will give the people in the community better opportunities that will not only help them but the people and community around them.

Libraries give back more than they give and even if the idea and definitions have shifted the primary goal has and always will be to educate and provide resources for the community. Libraries will continue to evolve and grow with it members and will always be a staple in history as a place of importance.