Libraries give us power (Library services)

Member Name: grahamp3

Product:	Library services
Date:	27/09/01 (31 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: don't like books much? you can borrow videos DVDs and CDs, important source of revenue for authors

Disadvantages: they're shut half the time, a bit smelly (tramps and old carpets), don't have enough good new books

Public libraries are the hallmark of a civilised, democratic society. That may sound like a pompous old truism but it's as important now as it ever was. Especially as libraries can house internet terminals and other technological methods of learning. The underfunding of the public library service in the 80s was a national disgrace. It seems that things are gradually recovering but opening hours are still short and there seems to be a shortage of new books. They should be central to any community as a post office or a pub, a force for social interaction, education and communication. Where else can you read the newspapers for free, carry out research as a student or writer?
If you have a love of reading, bookshops won't have everything you're interested in. And if you like to read a lot, you'll know it's an expensive pursuit! Use the inter-library loan system to find out of print or expensive books. A library card should be as essential as a credit card... without it you're just not going to get everything you need out of life.

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