big fan of libraries | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Arts Entertainment

I'm A Big Fan Of Libraries and An Op-Ed Won't Change That

Libraries for the win!

41
I'm A Big Fan Of Libraries and An Op-Ed Won't Change That
https://www.meaction.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/20170509_Eng_Library_DJA_012_3.jpg

Recently an op-ed article about how libraries should be replaced by Amazon was published in Forbes and I have never been so up in arms about something. Regardless of the fact that Forbes did take down the article and gave something resembling an apology, I'm still upset that this thought is even out in the world. Giving up public libraries means more than maybe giving taxpayers back some money or whatever else that article argued. It means giving up safe places for people to be, free books, jobs, and access to other free or reduced resources, among other things.

Libraries have been a place of refuge for me for as long as I can remember. I have always loved reading and been a voracious reader. In fact, it's what I do for most of the summer. I check out as many books as I can carry and try to go at least once a week. I've checked out over 20 books this summer alone. Now, imagine that those books weren't free. If each book is $10 (and most are between $15-25), I would've spent $200 on books just this summer! I definitely do not have the resources for that. So what then? I just don't read?

But more than just free books, libraries are places people can come to take refuge, to better their lives, to be around people. For some people, getting the chance to use the free computers at the library is the only time they're able to use a computer. Replacing that with Amazon would completely take away that opportunity. For others, coming to the library is the chance to be around people and not home alone. Even if they don't talk to anyone there, the chance for socialization and taking in the outside world is there. Putting Amazon in place of that would force those people to constantly be by themselves. Other people come to the library as a chance to get away or research things they can't research anywhere else. Having those resources at your fingertips opens up the possibility for enrichment and learning. Again, you'd have to pay for that if Amazon took over.

There are plenty of other, better articles than mine out there about this, like this and this, but one thing is for sure: I will always stand up for public libraries over any corporation taking over. My library card is one of the best cards I own and I don't go many places without it. I have been able to read so many of my favorite books and gone on so many adventures thanks to my local library. So, thanks, kinda, Forbes, for taking that article down, but next time, I'd much prefer you didn't post that article at all.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
kid
Janko Ferlic
Do as I say, not as I do.

Your eyes widen in horror as you stare at your phone. Beads of sweat begin to saturate your palm as your fingers tremble in fear. The illuminated screen reads, "Missed Call: Mom."

Growing up with strict parents, you learn that a few things go unsaid. Manners are everything. Never talk back. Do as you're told without question. Most importantly, you develop a system and catch on to these quirks that strict parents have so that you can play their game and do what you want.

Keep Reading...Show less
friends
tv.com

"Friends" maybe didn’t have everything right or realistic all the time, but they did have enough episodes to create countless reaction GIFs and enough awesomeness to create, well, the legacy they did. Something else that is timeless, a little rough, but memorable? Living away from the comforts of home. Whether you have an apartment, a dorm, your first house, or some sort of residence that is not the house you grew up in, I’m sure you can relate to most of these!

Keep Reading...Show less
man working on a laptop
Pexels

There is nothing quite like family.

Family is kinda like that one ex that you always find yourself running back to (except without all the regret and the angsty breakup texts that come along with it).

Keep Reading...Show less
bored kid
Google Images

No matter how long your class is, there's always time for the mind to wander. Much like taking a shower or trying to fall asleep, sitting in a classroom can be a time when you get some of your best ideas. But, more than likely, you're probably just trying to mentally cope with listening to a boring lecturer drone on and on. Perhaps some of the following Aristotle-esque thoughts have popped into your head during class.

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

Advice To Live By As Told By Bob's Burgers

The Belchers hold the key to a better life.

1309
Bob's Burgers
Adult Swim

Bob's Burgers is arguably one of the best and most well-written shows on tv today. That, and it's just plain hilarious. From Louise's crazy antics to Tina's deadpan self-confidence, whether they are planning ways to take over school or craft better burgers, the Belchers know how to have fun. They may not be anywhere close to organized or put together, but they do offer up some wise words once and awhile.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments