I’m sitting in a public metropolitan library as I type this, something I haven’t done since before I attended college. There are tens of thousands of books wrapped in clear protective plastic on metal shelves. Those walking around me and sitting near me range from young students to elderly men and women. In a time of advanced technology and "doing-it-yourself" mentality, they all came here to do their own private work.
I’m curious as our culture changes, how do we continue to grow and learn? Why do the age-old mediums, like libraries and communicating with each other, stay relevant.
I would love to hear what others think. Please consider this is me throwing some ideas against the wall and seeing what sticks!
Great topic. I know that professional librarians have discussed it a lot, and libraries today are often community resource centers (with computers and internet, with workshops, etc.) as they are book collections. – JamesBKelley6 years ago
First and foremost, it's important for one to have an open, clear mind. A mind in which does not discriminate and hold prejudice. With an open mind, one can gather knowledge through personal experience. Through personal experience, you are most likely to obtain the most meaningful knowledge, something that you understand and you can relate to. – paigethai6 years ago
As our cultures continue to change, we grow and learn because of our innate curiosity. The age-old mediums, like libraries and communicating with each other, stay relevant due to our longing to meet others, share, change and pass on our knowledge. Humans cannot help but attract to each other like magnets to share personal experiences, et cetera and then from these smaller or larger human groups, they repel like magnets to share and reshape the new knowledge they have accumulated. The pattern of accumulation and dissemination of information from one book or person to many others crosses the boundaries of time and space to advance our civilisations. – RipperWriter6 years ago
Love this topic. I think it may be interesting, even important, to also explore how these mediums change with us in this 'time of advanced technology'. A pre-internet, pre-screens metropolitan library would differ from the modern library. However, something like the 'snail mail' letter is much rarer and more highly-valued now than when it was simply the best and fastest way to communicate. It's fascinating to see how things have evolved in either their use or value as we continue to embrace technology more and more. The growth is exponential now, so we have the opportunity to see history change before our very eyes in a way that is more apparent than ever before. – Analot6 years ago
As someone who works in libraries, this is a vital question to me. What makes libraries remain relevant? I would say community. Libraries are increasingly becoming community hubs - bookable group rooms, author readings, playdates for kids and new moms, etc. They are the places where we make connections. Sometimes it's technological - helping older people learn Facebook to connect with family - other times it's "real life" connections - book clubs, etc. Fascinating topic! Thanks for sharing! – nathanl6 years ago
Libraries are inspirational. My favourite library is the 5th Avenue Library in New York City. I go there whenever I am in New York and write... It inspires me to be productive, and creative. – jdumay6 years ago
As a former library assistant, I can attest to the fact that learning in libraries is still a huge thing! I love the environment, it's a place for learning and getting work done. I'd love to read and write more about this topic! – Kendra6 years ago