When I was young, I spent A LOT of time at the library. Go figure, right? I pored through my favorite authors, discovered new authors, discovered new genres! Found my happy place.
Some would say libraries are fading away. To them, I say hogwash! Libraries continue to be relevant, not only for the expansion they've done to accommodate an ever-changing market, but in times like this where they step forward to continue to help.
Most libraries help their communities in numerous ways other than just lending books. They also have computer libraries where people who are out of work and financially strapped can search for jobs, they are polling places and census recorders. They offer community programs and learning opportunities. The list goes on.
During the pandemic, my local library has moved to a virtual platform. Everyday they have a schedule that includes a librarian reading a book or sharing a recipe. They're showing how to make face masks and doing birthday shout outs. They're awesome.
But what about checking out books? Well, I'm glad you asked! Most libraries offer a virtual lending library. Mine uses Hoopla. Some use Overdrive. You can check out e-books! Don't see what you want? Ask them to get it for you. Many e-books are free for libraries. And while I'm on this topic...
I'm not a fan of subscription book services, and yet in these strange days, they certainly have their place. I don't put my books on Kindle Unlimited simply because Amazon requires you to be exclusive to them in order to qualify. I prefer to share my books with people who shop more places than Amazon, like Barnes & Noble, or Kobo, or Apple... or other subscription services, like Hoopla, or Overdrive, or Scribd (to name a few).
When so many people are suddenly unemployed, buying a book can be tough. On the other hand, books are the perfect escape from the anxiety of the day (I know I've been losing MYSELF in reading more). Libraries and subscription services are the perfect answer.
Do you borrow books from the library? (I do!) Do you use a subscription service?
Inquiring minds want to know!
Until the pandemic, I'd put physical books on hold at the library, simply because the wait times for the e-books were so much longer. But now (fingers crossed), libraries are expanding their collections so more people can check out digital books. As a matter of fact, I'm reading this month's neighborhood book club selection via Overdrive. (And our meeting will be via Zoom.)
ReplyDeleteWhen it comes to libraries, I’m still fascinated to walk through the stacks exploring books.
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