Are Libraries Becoming Extinct?

I think it's all about money. =) As you wrote above that the excuse for closing some libraries is because there is not enough money available. The officials can't be blamed because however, having a library will cost them more money, including staffs' salaries, stock of books, cleaning the building, cost for computer and so on. I GO to library everytime I need something, everytime I need something to read. I don't think officials here will close the library down. =)

I work in a library so I know what the community that I am in feels about the current economy and all. I live in PA and we are facing a budget crisis like you would not imagine. Months ago we are facing and still are facing a big budget crunch if the lawmakers get their way. Many of our library patrons have written to the local representatives and the others, and the governor about the proposed budget crunch on the libraries. So hopefully, we won't get hit hard when they do figure out a budget. I am in agreement when it comes to libraries. Libraries are the lifeblood of communities and do play a major role in the life of the community, education and so forth. Patrons are using the libraries more than ever because of the economy. They are searching online for jobs, doing resumes, checking out books that they cannot afford, and so forth. The libraries in our area are doing what they can until the budget finally comes in. Since I work at the local library in my area, I almost always here and I see many more people using the library more than ever before. I am not sure what would happen if any of the libraries in the area had to close. I would be mightily upset if that happened. I have worked in the library field for over 18 years and I have seen a lot of stuff happening over the years. I know most of the libraries in the are have reduced their hours and cut the amount of materials that they have gotten. We simply do what we have to do. So I do not think I ever will see, at least in my life time, libraries going the way of the dinosaurs.

My neighborhood library actually remodeled! =o I go there every once in a while. Not so much anymore because I tend to buy my books now. But I think I'd be very disappointed if it were to close! I go there quite often when I need something printed... or if I'm short in cash and need to find a certain book right away. Especially if I needed to study!

i dont think so. i occasionally use the library, as needed. i mostly use the college library. but sometimes i will check the public library.

Yes i have noticed changes over here. There are less library than compared to before. Now days all prefer E-Books

I would cry if my library closed. I love going to my library. My four year old son is part of a reading group. And he is soo excited for Tuesday nights because of it. I personally use the time to be in quietness. I normally get a bit of reading out of the way, but really it is my time to not think and let my mind relax. And I use the library as a way for me to 'preview' books. I buy the books I read, so I check out the ones I am not sure if I want to invest in, especially if it is a big series of books. It seems like my local library is busier than ever with the current 'economical situation'. It is a free and fun place for parents to take their kids, especially when it is scorching hot outside.