The significance that was once accorded to libraries is seemingly dwindling away as budgets for libraries are heavily slashed (Block par. 1-5). The state libraries are worst hit, and some are even facing closure, or have already been closed. The internet has apparently become the hub for information and in a very efficient manner. However, most of this information that is available online is not credible, and libraries are a means to accessing objective and academically valued information. Ignoring the essence of libraries means that no access to reliable information. Therefore, this paper aims at reviewing the positive contribution that libraries make in day to day life by enhancing people’s intellectuality; hence, libraries should not be eliminated or given little importance.
Libraries remain to be imperative repositories despite the fact that the internet is rich with information because most of the credible academic sources require purchasing. In the harsh economic times, it would be better to visit a library instead of buying every book one needs. The libraries are ignored, yet it is because of them that academicians and researchers are able to gain access to databases, which an individual cannot maintain due to the high costs incurred. Thanks to the libraries, these databases can be accessed by individuals at no cost. Libraries sort out information with the help of qualified staffs, who have specially trained in managing books in the library (“Are librarians totally obsolete” par. 21-23).
University libraries, even though attention to them has been reduced by the overwhelming use of the internet, are able to escape elimination since their maintenance is from the students’ fees. It is important, however, to note that visiting the library does not literally mean walking over to a library, especially since most libraries have digitalized their collection. It has become easier and convenient to access the library from wherever one maybe due to technology. Despite the fact that this paper heavily relies on internet sources, the importance of libraries cannot be surpassed by this action because some sources of information can only be accessed with the intervention of the library (Cook, and Heath 563-564).
Information is power, and this power can only be attained by getting access to insightful literature that is academically approved. The internet is filled with insight, but much of this insight is based on an individual’s idea that may require evaluation. In the academic, research and professional worlds, it is peer-reviewed and published work that is given importance. The Wikipedia, for example, is a readily available internet source that is not accepted in the academic field. The state should understand that every individual needs access to credible information that can only be found in the libraries, at times. If this repository continues to face such neglect, then a majority of the people will be blocked out from up-to-date research; hence, less development in the society (“The role of libraries in modern society” par. 5-6).
In a bid to get access to quality sources of information, libraries remain the main avenue for such a cause. The internet might seem as a more convenient alternative, but one should not forget that the same internet is a home to a lot of subjective information on blogs and personal websites, and, actually, these may not be academically approved. States should revisit their policies for libraries, and come up with ways of reinstating and maintaining them because no matter what, libraries have a major role to play in dissemination of knowledge from one individual or generation to another.
Works Cited
“Are librarians totally obsolete?” College Online, 2014. Web.
Block, Marylaine. “A predictable funding disaster.” Ex Libris, 2002. Web.
Cook, Colleen, and Fred M. Heath. “Users’ perceptions of library service quality: A libQUAL + qualitative study.” Library Trends 49.4 (2001): 548-584.
“The role of libraries in modern society.” Technology Times, 2014. Web.