Many claim that libraries are becoming obsolete, along with the act of reading itself. I respectfully disagree.
From my vantage point behind the desk, I help patrons set up library accounts and delight in the joy that spreads across a child’s face when they receive their first library card. While their parents fill out the necessary forms, some children can hardly contain their excitement, eager to explore the hidden treasures within the shelves. Classic stories like those of Dr. Seuss, Curious George, Pippi Longstocking, and Nancy Drew continue to ignite a sense of wonder in today’s youth—stories passed down by their parents, who fondly remember how they spent summer afternoons lost in literature.
Living in a college town, I often witness young adults venturing away from home for the first time. Many of them walk through our doors to apply for library cards, reminiscing about their hometown libraries. They share tales of bravery, recalling the thrill of their first solo trip to the library, where they discovered new worlds and made their own selections, proudly carrying those books home in their bags—a rite of passage into adulthood.
One afternoon, a young man of about seventeen approached me at the front desk with his grandmother. Although he already had a library card, she felt daunted by the modern, vibrant building. With great care, he filled out her application on the computer, and I could see the pride in her eyes as she watched this young man, whom she once cradled, now guiding her through a new experience. Together, they walked into the library, a beautiful juxtaposition of youth and age.
In my previous small town, I had a friend named Lucy, who dedicated her days to teaching and her evenings to being a librarian. She often mentioned that she was responsible for nurturing both the children and the books in our community. By the time she passed away last April, she had spent three decades guiding both young and old towards literature that resonated with them personally. During her funeral, I sat on the grass with an acquaintance, who, though not well-known to me, reflected on Lucy’s influence. He was an adventurer and musician, and he shared how she had introduced him to Kafka and Nietzsche during the long, lonely winter nights spent in the library, escaping the isolation of mountain life. Her impact was significant.
In a recent essay, author and bookstore owner Mia Thompson expressed her passion for sharing book recommendations with loved ones. This habit is an addiction for many avid readers. Each shared story, adventure, or thought-provoking commentary enriches our understanding of humanity and brings a little joy into our lives.
Though the landscape of libraries may be shifting and fewer individuals may seek out books for quiet retreats, as long as children remain curious about the stories waiting behind those covers—like the young girl idly twirling her hair while browsing the shelves filled with new heroes and heroines—libraries will continue to thrive. A new generation of readers will emerge, ensuring that the love for books persists.
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In summary, while some may argue that libraries are fading into obscurity, the excitement and love for reading among children and young adults suggest otherwise. As long as there are eager readers, libraries will remain vital and vibrant spaces for exploration and discovery.