Why Libraries Are Important

As the Director of the East Haddam Free Public Library, I am asked a lot of questions. Most of the time the answers are easy: “Yes, we’re open.” “The Bathroom is downstairs.” “That’s a book; it’s like a kindle but you don’t have to charge it.”

Sometimes the answers are harder: “Actually, Benjamin Franklin invented Daylight Savings Time.^” “The sky is blue because of Rayleigh Scattering.” “That’s an encyclopedia; it’s like a fancy paperweight.”

And sometimes they’re just plain weird: “No, we don’t accept books that have been in the toilet.” “Sorry, that owl is dead.” “Because that’s not a restroom. “

Getting to answer a variety of questions is one of the many highlights of working in a library. My favorite questions to answer are about libraries, particularly what they have to offer the community and how wonderful they are.  There a lot of people who ask “Why are libraries important?” A lot of these people are library supporters who want to make sure their favorite institution will be around for years to come. Others just aren’t aware of what libraries have to offer and genuinely want to know more, and of course a few (very few, in my experience) are just plain cynical.  Nonetheless, it’s an important question and one that takes longer to answer than I often have time for (since I usually only have the time it takes to check out 3 DVDs and the latest James Patterson novel). 

So, why are libraries important?

Libraries are important because they reflect the values of their community and serve its needs. That’s a fancy way of saying, “We provide items and services that citizens of East Haddam ask for (often for free!)” Libraries exist to serve their communities.  That’s how American libraries have always operated. It’s why they’re a mainstay in every community across the country.  If you need a job, the library has tools and resources. If you need a computer, the library has one to use. If you need a movie to watch over the weekend or a book to take on vacation, the library has those too.  If you need a place to relax, meet new friends, or a fun excuse to get out of the house – the library is there for you. The library has always been about culture and knowledge, that’s part of the reason libraries have always been important. What keeps them perpetually important is their ability to change with the times.

The actual definition of a library is:

“a place in which literary, musical, artistic, or reference materials (such as books, manuscripts, recordings, or films) are kept for use but not for sale (courtesy of http://www.m-w.com ).”

There’s no denying that libraries were traditionally places to borrow books for free.  However, just as Walt Disney began as a guy who drew cartoons, libraries developed into something so much more. The mission statements of libraries went from “to lend out books and shush patrons” to “to promote the communication of ideas” - which is just a fancy way of saying, “to give people something to talk about.” If it stimulates the mind or the imagination, it can be found at Your Friendly Neighborhood Library.

That’s why the library is such an amazing asset. It offers just about anything, and often offers it for free.  Books, DVDs, Audio Books, Magazines, and more are all available for checkout. The internet, Microsoft Office, and Wi-Fi are all available for free.  Programs that range from story hour to video games to nature presentations are ready and waiting for you to attend. In fact EHFPL, aka Your Friendly Neighborhood Library, offers an average of 5 programs a week for all ages – all for free.  Free books & movies are still a staple (in addition to magazines, manga, and video games), but many patrons who attend the library leave without checking out anything – they’re there for computers, events, or something else. Libraries are fast becoming community centers for culture and knowledge.

I could honestly write a book about why libraries are important, but to succinctly sum it up, short & sweet: Libraries are important because they’re awesome.

If you agree, tell your friends. The best way to help a public service you love is to spread the word. :)