Libraries are Awesome!

I'm on a library kick of late (and by that, I mean a "let's all cheer for libraries" kick). Years ago I thought I might become a librarian, but instead became a teacher and later...well, you know...a writer. All of those are, of course, related, and I still love libraries. What's more, they've changed so much. In fact, I'd like to point out that libraries have adapted to the changing needs of patrons faster than lots of for-profit companies have.

Libraries now offer not only books and magazines, but music and movies and computer access. A person can borrow an ereader or visit the media studio some libraries offer to record music or movies or play musical instruments (or borrow those instruments). Video recorders can be checked out. As noted in an earlier post, many libraries now offer access to 3D printers. Harold Washington Library in Chicago has a Maker lab with access to laser cutters and other tools (other libraries also have Maker spaces). My local library has a sewing machine, a movie projector, a Roku and other items patrons can check out.

I'm sure that I've barely touched on all the services that libraries today offer, but here's a fun video parody of Taylor Swift's "Shake It Off" titled "Check It Out" that mentions some of the library's benefits.

And for something a bit more soothing, a look at some of the most beautiful libraries (I love the music):

Have you used any of the more unusual services libraries offer?

Happy reading (and library visiting)!

Myrna