Libraries are essential, now more than ever. Despite what you may hear
about the death of print books and the lack of interest in libraries, there are
actually more public libraries in the U.S. than there are Starbucks.
On the one hand, libraries are an oasis for avid readers, whether for
pleasure or for need. More than just storage spaces for books, libraries are
important community hubs that serve as centers of learning and professional
development, including books, internet access and educational and professional training
programs. By providing free access to news, historical, and educational
resources, libraries help keep the public informed with facts, rather than
confuse them with fiction. Generally, some texts and other resources are simply not
available in an electronic format. This is often the case with limited-edition
print journals or texts from centuries ago. An individual wishing to look at
these resources must visit a traditional library to do so. Books preserve
the story and, more importantly, the truth.
On the other hand, they only provide as many books as they can store
within the physical space available to them. Likewise, Brick and Mortar stores
are not always easy to access. If you cannot travel to the physical location of
your favourite bookshop, there are no options to acquire the books you desire. In
addition, offline stores are restricted by time.
If you want my honest opinion, I reckon there are many people who love
to read a physical book and would never change it for anything.
Well-informed people have an opinion. Consequently, it is much less easy
to manipulate them because they are thoughtful and inquisitive people.
CARMEN CALDERÓN