Many of us may think about borrowing books when the word library comes up in conversation, but community libraries are much more than a literary treasure trove. The infographic below highlights the many benefits of having access to a library in your local community.
Libraries have long been a place to gather, and they continue to provide a welcoming, accessible space to meet new people, as well as to connect with friends and neighbors. Over 90% of people feel that their library improves the quality of community relationships, and 73% say that the library is an important resource for their family. Libraries also provide social opportunities for those are new to the community and those who may not have friends or family in the area. One in five people have used a library to work on a collaborative project.
As well as providing access to books, libraries also have an influential role to play in helping people in areas such as healthcare and employment. Some libraries already offer face-to-face meetings to learn more about getting a job or finding the right healthcare cover, and these services are becoming more commonplace. More than 80% of people said they were able to access resources and advice they would otherwise struggle to find.
Community libraries also provide opportunities in terms of personal development. By offering access to books, resources and modern technology, people can learn, expand their knowledge base and use their skills to better themselves. Libraries support all age groups, promoting literacy in children and adults, encouraging creativity, supporting students and workers and helping entrepreneurs launch businesses. One of the most important benefits in the digital age is enabling people to use the Internet free of charge. Almost 70% of public libraries are the only free source of wifi in the community.
Though borrowing books is a huge function of libraries, they have so much more to offer! Go to your local library today or search for their website to see what kind of programs and events they might have available for you.
Infographic Produced By University of Southern California
This is a contributed post. Read more about that here.
I really wish my city will build a library. But I’m sure we’ll get there especially since the news regarding the low reading comprehensions of students in my country came out. Hopefully really soon.
Oh goodness, I hope you do get one soon! We wouldn’t know what to do without our local library.
Yes! I LOVE libraries. I go to our local one weekly. I love to read, so I’m always there picking up books.
We try to go every 1-3 weeks, depending on how quickly we finish the ones we borrowed last time. I’m thankful both of my girls like to go too!
I’ve loved libraries since such a young age. I’m a book nerd for sure. My son is obsessed with books right now at 15 months and I hope that continues. I can’t wait to start taking him to the library.
Does your library have story time for little ones? Ours has a baby bookworms story time for kiddos around that age. I’m so glad he already likes books!
We love our local library! They rebuilt it a few years ago and it’s one of our favorite places to visit.
I remember when ours got rebuilt like 20 years ago and moved to a nice big building that looks a little like a barn. We love visiting as often as we can!
I love visiting my local library. I can spend hours browsing the shelves, picking out the perfect book to read 🙂
Louise x
Me too! I frequently lose track of time browsing 🙂
I love libraries so much. They have story hour for my daughter so I have met so many moms there being in this new city.
Yes, the kids programs are great for the moms too!