I have come to enjoy going to the library. It doesn't cost anything and it can be a very rewarding experience. There are some books that I have to purchase to include in my library of books at home..But there are some I want to read before I purchase them so I get them at the library first..... I take my grandsons to the library and they get so excited. We walked there one day from the park and they remembered the way the next time we went...They are so cute..they get a book and they start reading (their own way) they are 5 and 3 years old...Funny. When they are done they are so proud of there accomplishments..I think the library is a great place to take children...It opens their imagination.......When my niece was young, around 5, I believe...she could read and we went to the library to get her a library card. Now we all know how teeny tiny a library card is, let alone the place where you are to sign your name..My niece could sign her name and she was so very proud...only problem was that her long name would not fit on the card..the librarian said she could have the card as long as she could write her own name..She couldn't fit her whole name and they denied her the card...For crying out loud people..That is crazy..She started crying and I said to the lady, "You mean to tell me that she can't have a library card because her name doesn't fit in the teeny tiny space?" "You have got to be joking." She said, "the only way I will give her the card is if she can fit her name in that space." She couldn't..We did not get the card..How sad...I have never signed my card and they never check...This did happen 15 years ago so hopefully things have changed....I am sure with computers they just swipe the card now....I just thought that was stupid...Anyway, do you use the library to read, use the computer, or just read the newspaper? Let me know....We have a book cellar and you can purchase used books from there. It is in the basement of the library...
[question posted by Feona1962]
responses and comments:
I use it all the time, not so much for books but for borrowing audio CDs and videos. I can search for and reserve titles online, and they email me when it's ready to pick up. I've never bothered to rent a video or join Netflix because I can find nearly everything I need at the library. [Idlewild]
I forgot about renting video's and such...they do have a good assortment..This is good to hear..thank you [Feona1962]
I haven't gone to the library in a long time. They rarely have the books I am interested in. I would rather just save up and buy the books I want to read so that I can read them again any time I want to. I also have a computer at home so I don't need to use one at the library. I do purchase used books if they are in good condition. But, I have a very large book collection. There is always something to read in my house. [myfanwy65]
Libraries LOVE patron requests of what to buy for their collections! Even if you might not check it out, let them know what you are interested in, and they will know what the community wants to see! Even if you don't go for books or to use the computer, most libraries hold all kinds of classes, offer tax help, and have just about every kind of form known to mankind that you might need. [Betani]
I haven't been to the public library in years! I went to a private college in my hometown though and they have a HUGE library which I still occasionally go and peruse sometimes, but probably not as often as I should. A library is a great place to gather good information, it's kinda something that I think people forget about. [FSCAries]
I always want to have books at my house, but sometimes I can't afford them, so the library is the next best thing....My husband has military records that he wants to read but he needs the microfish (I think that is what it is called) in order to read them, so we are going to make a day and do that...Thank you [Feona1962]
When my computer crashed I used to go to the library to use the computer but mow that I have my computer running I do not need to go to the library to use the computer, as far as book, I have a small library of my own and I am also the librarian for my local aquarium club, I do not think that i will be able to read all of the books that I have at my disposal. Plus right now my car is down and probably will to be able to get it fixed for a while. I could always get on the bus and go but I am still reading the books that I have. [oscarbartoni]
I am glad the library was available in your time of need..I don't think I will be able to read all that I have either, but I'll do my best....I enjoy learning...I hope you can get back when your car gets fixed...Thank you.. [Feona1962]
I never did get why you had to be able to at least print your name in this little itty bitty space in order to get a card. Make no sense to me, talk about turning a child off from books. I use our local library several times a month. I love going in there and finding new books to read. I am actually on a first name basis with many of the employees there. If ther eis a book I want but they don't have it and can't get it from another source they will fill out a request form for it to be purchased for me. I take my little ones to story hour, at least once a week, they love being able to hear new books but they really like the misuc/dance reading. This is a 30 minute group where they read a dance type story and they act it out to music. All of my children love Ms. Susan who does these "classes", she also calls each child by name, I don't understand how she can remember them all but somehow she does. Ms. Susan actually won a national award last year and travel to New York to receive it. Our library has a huge play area filled with books and toys for the kids so while they are playing I take a book from the shelf and read it, keeping one eye on the kids. There are times we will spend 2 or 3 hours there. [dragonokiefly]
That was a brilliant idea...We love the whole Harry Potter thing...I bet that was a great time had by all..which makes it all the better.. [Feona1962]
Both my girls have library cards and have had them for awhile. When I went to sign their names on the back I was told to sign my own name. The cards are still registered in their names though. We rent videos/DVD's and CD's as well as take out books. I don't have a lot of money to be shelling out on books I want to read and I also have a lot of books at home waiting to be read so it is hard for me to justify buying new books... unless of course it's from the used books for sale in the basement of the library. I am at the library every other week meeting with my writing group. I don't often use the computers there as I have one here. I use the other computers to look to see if they have a book I am looking for and to reserve it if it is out. There are some books I would rather have in my own library, authors that I read regularly. Like it wouldl be neat to have every letter of the ABC mysteries by Sue Grafton, but I just can't afford to do that sort of thing. If I see a book I haven't read by an author I really like, I will snatch it up right away without even thinking about what I have to read at home. [patgalca]
I know what you mean about wanting to buy, but like you funding is limited, and I also have tons at home that need to be read..I haven't read any of the Sue Grafton books..I am curious as to know how good they are..I have been reading Debbie Macomber's books and I am hooked..I have found that the library doesn't have all of them..I like to read the series in order..I'm sure alot of people do..I did purchase the Cedar Cove series because they are ones I will read again....Thank you [Feona1962]
I don't use the library mostly because I just can never find any books that I'm interested in. Our library is pretty small compared to other's so I just skip going to the library and spend money to buy a book if I really want to read it. If there's a book I want to read and I know that I can borrow it from someone though, I will. I just can never find the books that I want at our library. I don't even have a card. [highflyingxangel]
That's okay, sometimes I can't find any of interest either..Then sometimes I find ones that I would not even have known about unless I had gone to the library...I would loan my paperbacks but never my hardcover..I take the dust jacket off of the hardcover when I read them..They look brand new when I am finished...Thank you [Feona1962]
How sad about your neice, I am sorry that she had to go through that. How cute about your grandsons! I take my son to the library all the time. He has his own card and he checks out books and videos. I love to look for Chicken Soup for the Soul books that I have not read before. I really think that going to the library is a very good thing for kids and adults both. Our library offers story times for both children and adults, learning hours. I know a lot of people that have not stepped foot in a library for years, but I frequent my public library all the time. [tdbrower1969]
Thank you and I know that sometimes we forget about the little things in life that can bring us great joy..I can walk to ours so that makes for good excercise also... [Feona1962]
I have been working this year as a Student Assistant in our school and i have observed so far that plenty of students still go to Library to research about something..the Library isnt still part of the 'old-school' [cuteyasoi17]
I did that also when I was in school. My Aunt was the librarian..Some things never go out date.. [Feona1962]
I know you are not going to believe this but the very SAME thing happened to ME when I was a little girl. I couldn't get my library card (even though I read far beyond my grade level) because I couldn't fit my long name on that stupid card. I can't believe it happened to anyone else. I thought it was my own private childhood trauma! Anyway, I used to go to the library all the time when I lived a few blocks away. Now, I tend to buy books and I use a book trade online (PaperbackSwap.com) to send my old books to others and request ones that I want to read. It's worked out well for me. I still buy new books, but this has cut down on my expenses, and helped me get rid of some old books too. (They also have children's books to swap.) [AnythngArt]
I feel your disappointment also. My niece was crushed..It didn't stop her though..when she read to us she would spell every word as well as saying it...I am not sure if alot of children do this, but it was her way..It made the story even better...she is in college now and an A student..The book trade sounds like a great idea..I am going to check into it..Thank you [Feona1962]
i still use it. it should be a good place to hang out and to your tasks with friends, find references and all that sorts of stuff. I still like reading reall books sometimes than reading it on the computer with ebooks. so it's still usefull now. [retsu782000]
I haven't read any ebooks..I like to have the book in my hands..just makes it seem more real..Thank you [Feona1962]
I love going to library. But unfortunately, I don't have a good library near my area. For research, internet is helpful and faster, but for detail data, library is still far more superior than internet. [badrun]
That is great... and sorry to hear there isn't a library close..The internet is a great tool, but the library can open up a whole new experience..Thank you [Feona1962]
I haven't used the library for years. I used to go there when I was skiving off lessons as nobody would think to look there for me. [hodgetts999]
hmmmmmm....using the library as a hideout...that is a new one in my book....At least you chose a safe place..My husband said his friend used to go there to sleep, because he worked on a farm and had to get up at 3am to work on the farm, then had to get on the bus, go to school, then when he would take his study hall at the end of the day, he said he had to go to the library...He fell asleep behind the magazine rack..Someone had to wake him up so he didn't miss his bus...How funny...Thank you [Feona1962]
Yes, I love going to the library! I have always liked it since I was a little kid, but for awhile, I just never seemed to have the time to get over there. Now lately, I've been going over there quite a bit again, and I'm really enjoying it. It has a great selection and it's really a money saver if you don't care about owning a particular book, or if you check out a DVD instead of going to the video store. [elisa812]
I think we forget how useful and money saving our library can be..It is amazing what you can find there...Thank you [Feona1962]
Some people do and some people do not. I would if I had the time, but sometimes I do not have the time. Also, there is the internet and computers now. If I want a book on a subject, I turn to the internet. [rogue13xmen13]
I agree. And the internet has become more convenient for some...Thank you [Feona1962]
I don't use library at all.May be because I am dependent more on internet rather than library.I always like to find books on internet when I feel bored.Internet can provise us vast amount of books whic library can't provide.Moreover searching a book on internet is an easy job for me so I always prefer internet.It is basically wrong practice because one can't read any book which is in your personal computer for a long time and you can develop more interest in a book if it is hard one rather than just a soft copy.I would like to change my that habit of reading books on internet and will try to adopt the method of library. [jashan1985]
The internet sure has become a highway to information, which is great..But you can only do so much on the internet too! I know I can only look at the screen for so long...Good luck in changing the way you read books...Thank you [Feona1962]
I don't go to the library cuz I just forget to return the books =/ [SuchPwn]
That is okay...Maybe if you set up some reminders on when the item needs to be returned that could help you get back to going to the library...Thank you [Feona1962]
I love going to the library. It is a mini vacation when I read books. I love to read and so it is much cheaper to get the books from the Library. Unfortunately I haven't had much time to read lately so have not had a need to go to the Library. [craftwave]
We all need those mini vacations..It is good to know the library is there when we need it..Thank you [Feona1962]
oh,oh...how sad is the story.just because of the name that didn't fit on the card when written, the child was deprived of the books in the library.It shouldn't be like that because children should have the time to go there...It is a fact that nowadays, computer and internet are already way ahead the library.But i think, library is still very important because printed words can easily be remebered and books will always be there while for the internet, you still have to use the computer which will take time.Though internet can help us a lot because of its easy access in finding topics. [fly_shay]
Thank you...I didn't let that librarian get away with anything, I just checked out all the books my niece wanted on my card...If there's a will there's a way.....Thank you [Feona1962]
I work for a library and, yes, people are definitely still using them. But, I live in a large city. Now, in our city, we only ask that the child can write their first name. We're not that picky about it fitting in the little space. We mostly want them to be able to write it on the application. The reason why we ask that the child be able to write their name is that we want to make sure that the child will possibly be reading or wanting to read and knowing their letters and writing is a good indicator. We've had parents in the past get cards for all their babies and then check out a lot of books and never return them. In our city, you can have up to $600 in items. If they get all of their kids cards and they all take out $600 worth and never bring them back, it's a big loss for the city, especially if a few hundred people do that. And, quite a few people will do that. Also, some people have high bills on their own card and try to use their kids cards to avoid paying the bills on their card. [desertdarlene]
I understand that totally...How sad for the parents to take advantage of the children...Your reasoning is justified because you really want to know if this child is the one that is going to read and cherish the books he/she gets from the library..I am sure the librarian didn't want to hurt my niece's feelings, but rules are rules...That certainly can be a great loss to the library...I didn't think of it that way, only because I would never think of doing it that way... Thank you for this information... [Feona1962]
Speaking (or writing) as someone who works in a library and issues cards, you have to remember that this is a legal document.I don't see how a child could be denied for not being able to write their name becaues no one under the age of 18 is resonsible unless they are emancipated minors! Each library has different requirements-some say 16. We require a parant or guardian to sign if the cardholder is under 18. This has to be someone that is legally responsible for the child's bills. Most libraries are non-profit and poorly funded. They have to have a way to get books back and fines paid. The governemnt is no help anymore. Also believe it or not there is a problem with people using library cards that are not theirs and not returning books. When you send a bill to the card holder-they deny ever having used the card! Our library is small and we don't have this problem often, but I have a woman right now that has taken out 22 children's books and has not returned them. Her fines are close to $200 and no other children can enjoy those books. There is a reason why library workers have to be diligent. [creativemuse]
Back when this happened about 15 years ago, I don't think they were worried about parents using their childrens cards and then keeping the books...but I could be wrong..It is always the few that ruin it for the many...I could never take advantage of my children..How sad for your library not to have those books anymore...and because of people like that, the rules become more strict..Thank you.. [Feona1962]
lot of people use the library in my school. there are times when student's would be scrambling to borrow books and the tables would be full of students studying or making projects. i think this is a common sight in schools, i don't know about community libaries. but i agree with you, libraries are pretty neat places to hang out in. [teleios]
When I was in college, the library was were I did the majority of my studying..not only were the books or references I needed handy, it was just a peaceful place to study...It is so good to hear that the library is still important.. Thank you [Feona1962]
A free resource of literature and references that can be used for any purpose? The general public would have to be dumb to NOT use the library. I had a job preparation and portfolio class. I needed to have a cover letter, resume, and tear sheet done for my class. My instructor told us that the way we were taught to make them in high school won't cut it in the real world so make a better set. I went to the library to read books with excellent tips and working examples of resumes and coverletters. They had textbooks that I needed for classes, letting me avoid paying nearly $50 for a book I'll only use for one semester. You can't just beat a money-saver like the library. The only time you can't use the library is when 1) They just don't have what you're looking for, 2) You owe them too much in overdue book fees, and 3) You lose or steal books from the library. But those are only 3 good reasons. Everything else is pretty much an excuse. Unless you're a germaphobe who can't stand touching used things. =/ [xenpen]
That is exactly how I think of it...Free resources that are actually free...where else can you find that? I wouldn't purchase a book for $50 either, besides you probably wouldn't get all your money back if you sold it...It is good to know the libraries are updated to handle all of our needs for references etc....Thank you [Feona1962]
I go daily to lib.I know that there are many ways by which you can gain informations very fast and easy than going to a lib and looking for it there.But still I like going to lib as informations given in net and all are not reliable always but those from standard textbooks will always be acceptable everywhere..Your professor must have read the textbook but not the article you are mentioning from the net. [ackars]
I also remember taking both my children to the library for story hour. They both got library cards and I would help them select books for them to take out. At some point, they lost interest, not necessarily in books, but in the library altogether. I love to read, but the books I want are often not available and I have to be put on wait list to get them. I just end up buying the books so I can get them when I want them. I think libraries are still wonderful places for everyone, but libraries have had to change with the times themselves. I know our public library had to move their media and computer center to another building because more people were interested in using the computers than taking out books. Our library also has a used book selection for sale, but there are never any books that I ever want to purchase. [wachit14]
I think computers have become the norm anymore..I think because we get faster access to everything...Thank you [Feona1962]
I have scanned a lot of books in my school library and have read a dozen of them right in my childhood. I have also scanned almost all books in my college library and have read about 40-50 of them. I love reading and its a great source of knowledge for me. i think every individual especially children and youngsters should spend a lot of time reading various things which will enhance their knowledge and help them outwot the tough competition in the market. Its not free though, but yes its worth the price because knowledge cant be evaluated! [Zerzis]
It is a great source of knowledge indeed..You can't put a price on that..Thank you [Feona1962]
I love going to the library. I go about once a week. All those free books to read. I get a lot of audio books, too. I like those because I can listen while I do housework or crochet and things like that. Or listen when I'm in the car. Kelly [kelly3]
I crocheted 13 large afghans while listening to audio books. I made them in 2 months time...I was just a beginner at crocheting then too..Multi-tasking..You've got to love it..Thanks for sharing... [Feona1962]
Yes, we go every couple of weeks. I love the library, and so did my kids. We used to have a bookmobile come around when I was a kid, and it was so exciting! I still love to read when I don't have my face in here. [AnnabellaLeigh]
Do the book mobiles still come around?..I grew up in a small town, about 2000 people and we didn't have anything like that...the library was intimidating when I was young, but not anymore, move over I'm coming in...LOL...Thank you for sharing... [Feona1962]
Yes i still do in fact i am a member of the American and the British libraries in my city. [Manjyot]
Awesome!!!!!!!I would like to get more involved in mine, so I am going to find out more...Thank you [Feona1962]
Oh yes, I do. I visit the library very regularly because I am an avid reader. I always have at least a book with me. Cheers. [lordwarwizard]
Good for you..the more I read the better...Thank you [Feona1962]
i use the library. infact, library is one of my favorite places. i love to pass my time, reading books. and especiallly a library has treasure of information stored in it. i have not yet come across the problem of not being able to get a library card, so maybe i cant understand your problem so well, but still i fill sympathy for your neice. to be denied a library card just because she couldnt fit her name on it, that's really unfair . all the same, thanks for asking feona, cause i share your passion of libraries. :) [Windrunner]
I agree...It was just that she was so excited she could read....I guess with all the computer technology, you don't have to sign one anymore..Not sure, haven't taken my grandsons to get theirs yet..Thank you and happy reading.. [Feona1962]
ah the library a place of peace and tranquility heh. Well most people dont use it cause they dont feel like studying. I use it only to issue books and read them at home not at the library cause i just dont feel like reading there [Deathknight_31]
Recently public libraries have seen a dramatic increase in the number of "latchkey kids"--elementary and even preschool-aged children left unattended. Frequently, working parents are instructing their youngsters to go to the library after school and do homework until they can pick them up several hours later. This trend has produced some unfortunate results. For instance, children have been left in unsafe areas at closing time when their parents were late in picking them up. In addition, leaving children unattended at public libraries for long periods can be disruptive for other patrons. Kids who were hungry, tired, or restless have gotten noisy, upset, and have even vandalized library property. Consequently, many public libraries have adopted policies regarding how they will respond to children who are left unsupervised for long periods, particularly when there are questions of safety or liability. The policies of different libraries vary considerably, so if you have any questions, be sure to ask a staff member at your library. Preschool children visiting a library should always be accompanied by an adult or teenager. Suggestions for parents of older children who will be visiting the library include: * Remember that the library is a public building. Librarians are busy and are not able to supervise kids. * Teach your children how to take care of themselves in public places, including how to deal with strangers, what situations are dangerous, and what to do if they feel threatened. * Assess whether your children are comfortable being at the library for long periods. If going directly from school, do they need something to eat or some kind of physical or social outlet first? * Instruct your children on how to be considerate of others using the library. * Always pick up your children at least 30 minutes before closing time. In case you are delayed, give your children an alternative plan, such as calling a neighbor for a ride home. All of these guidelines and policies are designed to protect children, not discourage them from visiting libraries. Kids are welcome. s soon as you can, it is a good idea to include children--event toddlers--in weekly trips to the library. Libraries are often open in the evening for working parents, and most will issue a library card to any children who can print their names and whose parent will countersign for them. See that your children get their own library cards as soon as possible so that they can check out their own books. Also, it's a good idea to encourage your kids to ask on their own for help in finding books and materials. Keep in mind, however, that a librarian is there to point out different choices, not to decide what ideas your children should be exposed to. That is your job. So, no matter how helpful or knowledgeable a children's librarian may be, your participation in selecting and sharing books with your child is very important. Although public libraries welcome children and may have special facilities for them, there are commonsense guidelines for behavior that parents need to stress: * Library books are everybody's property and should be treated carefully. * Be sure that you and your children know the library's policies regarding loan periods and fines for overdue books. * Explain to your kids that the library is there for the whole community and they need to be considerate of others' needs. Keep in mind that it is your responsibility to see that your children behave acceptably and are not disruptive to others using the library. [john_striker2579]
I agree with you and thank you for all of your tips...I would never consider the library as a daycare..there is a certain age where the child who is responsible enough can go on there own...It is sad that some parents just don't get the fact that they are responsible for their children no matter what....thank you for your response...very nice [Feona1962]
Libraries are brilliant, you can read books for free! I've always used the library lot and since i can now renew my books online i can get even more out at a time. I don't go very often now though as i don't have a lot of spare time, but when i was a teenager i went at least very few weeks to see what new books they had in. I also often got the maximum number of books i could out - which is 8. That way i get even more choice as to which books to read! [duck2day]
Something that is acually free...not many places like that...thank you and happy reading. [Feona1962]
I love the library. To have that wealth of knowage in one place is just wonderful, we are so blessed. [IL2Knit]
Yes it is and it gets us away from the computer..I noticed you love to knit, I love to crochet, right now I am making baby blankets for my niece's soon to be daughter..I don't know how to knit but would love to learn... [Feona1962]
I work at our local library, and I can say with certainty that libraries are still very popular! Especially this time of year with the Summer Reading Program for the kids. 1500 kids have enrolled county-wide this year. I have always adored libraries. They are the perfect place for so many reasons. Relaxing, researching, satisfying curiosities, finding help for just about anything, or at least being pointed in the right direction. Computers aren't killing libraries. Libraries are using computers as tools, and providing access to those who still don't have it. The only problem is that governments don't see how important libraries are, so they take more and more money away each year. Our budget keeps getting cut, and we're about to have to go onto osterity again. As trite as the phrase sounds... SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY!!! [Betani]
That is alot of children..I don't think computers are killing the library either, they are great tools..It is just sad that the government "thinks" they have better ways to spend the money...They need to visit our libraries and see just how important they are...Thank you [Feona1962]