Public Libraries Value

I am on the commission overseeing a major public library system. I strongly disagree with your interpretation of what libraries do.First, the real estate presence of the library is extremely important. Children's storytime is one of the strongest drivers of foot traffic. Some of the buildings act as designated cooling centers during heat waves. They are community centers and gathering spaces for local organizations.Also, just because you can spend $10 on an ebook does not mean others

Library's are a public service not a business

Libraries are also community centers. They offer a lot more than just books. They can offer community programs, children's programs, and assistance on a lot of matters from librarians. They also can offer plenty of fiction that is copyrighted and not on the Internet (legally). Internet cafes are expensive, libraries are completely free. They are also a meeting place for the community and a sense of pride. For some reason they get a bad rap here on HN and in the tech world in general.

Not to be a downer, but can't people already go to the library for free?

Libraries aren't homeless shelters.

This is one of the most unhinged take I've ever read on libraries. Respectfully, it looks like you have never understood what libraries really are. At least here, in Italy, a library organizes events such as photography shows, local artists exhibits, and sometimes hosts voluntary activities (people here might know things such as corderdojo ecc...)The discoverability of new books is excellent, librarians routinely make a selection of books on some topics, it may be a generic one "his

Terrible take. Libraries provide enormous value to communities.https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2013/12/11/libraries-in...

Don't think you're missing anything, libraries exist to help connect communities. They are a public service. You pay for it.

Libraries provide services (like wifi, printers, classes etc) to people who may not be able to afford the lifestyle most of us enjoy here. Some are interested in learning and maybe trying to get ahead. $24 in property taxes per year seems a great deal to empowering people.I'm a tech-head (like most of us here) and recently joined my local library. I was amazed about all the cool books they had (i.e. they had a lot that's been recommended here). All free for you to take home.Close

it's possible! encouraging people to go to the library is a net good on society.