What’s the Coolest Thing About Your Local Library?
There are libraries where you can borrow dolls, tools, telescopes, framed paintings, an interview tie, or even seeds to plant . Libraries host talks, concerts, stories, seminars and classes; they distribute books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs and even video games. They may have a passport application center or other government services. They can give you free admission to museums or access to digital film libraries like Kanopy or Hoopla. But the offerings of each library system are different. What’s the most special thing you can get or do at your local library?
There is a cliché: “If libraries did not exist yet, they would never be approved today.” What’s strange is that people don’t say this to imply that libraries are a bad idea. This is what they so overwhelmingly good for the community, is the efficient use of public resources to serve the whole community and to help people help themselves, that if they do not exist, we could never guess that they will be this amazing.
And most libraries have evolved very well with technology and culture. They update their content, they allow visitors to find, reserve, and even consume content from their computers and phones, they offer the programs the community needs the most. Librarians are probably the friendliest and most helpful government employees you have ever consulted on.
What does your local library system offer that surprises or sets you apart? What have they done best for your community? What’s the awesome thing you can borrow, or the coolest thing you can do there? Are there digital services your library offers?
Is there a particularly beautiful library building or specialized collection near you? Is there a particularly good bookmobile or other medium for disseminating information? Is there a private library that you found particularly useful? Have you ever found a great “free little library” ?
Let us know in the comments below – don’t forget to name your city! – and we will present the best answers in the “Personnel” tab.