Libraries are no longer needed?

[jmc_bks]

According to Marc Fisher of the Post, libraries really aren't necessary now that everything is available on the 'net. Clearly he hasn't been to any of the local libraries I frequent, which are always full from open to close.

Comments

Libraries

[binoguegate.livejournal.com]

I dread the day they even think of doing away with libraries and bookshops.Our libraries are always full to bursting , our bookshops do brisk trade.Nothing but nothing can compare to the feel of a book in your hand and the smell of the pages .To lie back and read as and when it suits you in comfort, in the bath,on the loo, in bed.In a park lying in the grass..Internet book reading is just not the same.There has to be a market for both hard copy and internet surely.People have loved real books forever even with internet .

Re: Libraries

[tinyluv.livejournal.com]

as you smartly noted in your previous post, not everything is available on the net.

Re: Libraries

[jmc-bks.livejournal.com]

I think (hope) that writer was just trying to get attention. The article seemed a little disconnected from the reality of a lot of people, not only in terms of "everything is available on the internet" (no) but also with the idea that a B&N/Borders offers the same thing.

Re: Libraries

[jmc-bks.livejournal.com]

I don't think libraries are going anywhere, at least not in my area. Their traffic is huge. Frankly, libraries aren't all about the internet, which is what that writer seems to have missed.

[(Anonymous)]

I hope I won't get shot for this, but the internet greatly diminished the needs for libraries. However, there is no comparison to library browsing and holding the book in the hand. I never get to go to mine, though, as it's too annoying of a drive.

[jmc-bks.livejournal.com]

I disagree with you on the word "diminished". I think the internet changed the role of libraries in a lot of ways, but they are still needed. The internet is great and one can find vast amounts of information...but not all of the information is filtered or accurate.