In the past couple weeks, there has been ongoing discussion on cutting funding to libraries. This action would not only take away access to countless books, it threatens communities. While often overlooked, libraries are cornerstones to numerous public services. It is a free way to explore thousands of books and technology. In recent years, libraries have faded into the background. As we become more and more digitalized, having a space to relax and learn is crucial. Defunding libraries would deepen the already growing absence of books and education.
The growing disinterest in communities like libraries are caused partly by the rise of the internet. Everything moves incredibly fast, which over time builds a constant need to be entertained. When comparing a book to a movie, it is not hard to see why many already do not prefer it. Though, there has been a rise of platforms like “BookTok,” the side of TikTok dedicated to reading and discussing books. Often, many of these modern books are formulaic and lack substance. This new phase in books mainly infiltrates genres like romance. Predictable plots and overused tropes can greatly dim the reading experience.
Every genre has the potential to yield a masterpiece. However, publishers focus on grabbing their audience’s attention more than keeping it. They prefer to publish quick sellers to bring in profits. The scarcity of thorough editing and writing create a void of connection. Many beloved books took years of care and dedication to create. While not every book needs years of attention, the passion of the authors can be felt through the pages. This magic is the key to why readers feel so attached to certain series or books.
Reading is an outlet of entertainment and thought. A book falls flat without the presence of both elements. “Some books are entertaining and some are to inform and some could be both,” states sophomore Ruby Sanborn. Many students also felt similarly about books. They believed that there should be an equal amount of topics within literature. If this saturation in literature continues, diversity in books would die off. Having a variety in media consumption allows for critical thinking and society is vulnerable without its presence.
This is just one of the many benefits that libraries provide for communities. All in all, it is a space for studying, reading, and just exploring. They provide free access to resources that aid people who are struggling. Libraries have the potential to gain back the lost interest in reading, both critically and for entertainment, which is why losing all hope in them would be disastrous.
