Yes, libraries are invaluable for their collections and the services they offer, but also social contact without the expectation to interact with anyone or spend money is so important to so many people
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I was at my local library yesterday. There was an older man sitting right in the middle of the action, playing solitaire at a public computer. He smiled at everyone who went by. Social contact without interaction at its best. ❤️
It's the lack of people expecting you to interact with them, which makes it one of the few places I can go where people are without my social anxiety going. Nope, we're out of here. And because I really like books.
We even have introvert friendly events if you're ready to level up! Like the Silent Book Club: bring a book, read, meet others and ask them what they are reading, if you're feeling brave.
#SilentBookClub
Social interaction that gives you a prop (book!) and an easy question to answer for the win!
Library has many ways to support social contacts. Monthly book discussions. A town puzzle. Debates. Local artists showing off their works. Teens nights or teen room. Kids programs for parents to meet other’s parents.
My library (I work there) tries hard to be whatever someone needs. I have a few patrons who come on the same day each week, and talk a bit with me. They are mostly (but not all) older and we discuss everything from snow washing wool sweaters to how crying is good for you. And of course books.
I go into libraries during the week now and then and they're always buzzing. Various groups having meetups, playing cards, people on computers, parents and kids. All without any need to pay. It's almost unique these days.
The rise of public libraries coincided with the widening of the franchise. To understand current issues and to be able to vote you need to be educated, you need a reliable and unbiased source of information. Public libraries have been helping with this for generations.
I always tell people - where else can you hang out for as long as you want with heat (or AC), comfy seating, clean bathrooms & WiFi for absolutely zero cost?
Yes! In a world of increasing focus on revenue, spaces like libraries where we are allowed to interact with others without having to spend money are critical to our connection to society. Hoping these are always available thru government allocation of tax dollars. I gladly pony up for that expense
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will decide to keep and remove books from all libraries
Worse yet, fill it with their choice of literature
Sorry, they don't do literature
#SilentBookClub
Social interaction that gives you a prop (book!) and an easy question to answer for the win!
https://ktla.com/news/california-politics/california-city-will-install-maga-plaque-at-library-with-revised-design-added-security/