Libraries Feeling the Heat of the Economy

I have often said and written that libraries are one of the last vestiges of a real civic institution. You used to be able to count schools and religious institutions among the group but they have become politicized to varying degrees over the years. Libraries are, and continue to be, "third places" often times where people gather for meetings and other activities. But, they too, are feeling the crunch of demand from the economy. Libraries have become an outlet for jobseekers and others who just need a place to go. While this article focuses on lots of bad things that happen in and around libraries, the fact that people are turning to libraries can be a good thing. Sure demand is driven in part by job-seekers who want to use computers to do resumes or unemployed parents who need something to do with their children, this return to libraries tells me that we need places in communities where people can go to do exactly this. I am not suggesting that libraries become "rec" centers for the community but I am suggesting that the demand while high now is really a reflection of the important civic role they play. In these budget times, I would not cut the funding for libraries. In fact it is time to increase it. Keeping a strong, vibrant library system including bookmobiles and interlibrary loans is a key to our economic recovery in my mind. This is exactly where people should be--not in bars, home alone, or walking the streets. I am big believer in libraries and this article only reinforces that commitment. Routt County, CO, has the right idea.

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