
GUEST COLUMN: Check it out: Public libraries' bright prospects

Published: Thursday, March 20, 2014 at 06:30 PM.

By VICKY STEVER

Maybe you’ve heard a rumor like this: “Books and libraries are going away. With eBooks and everything on the Internet, no one needs a library.” The old stereotype of a library as just a warehouse of books is fading, but not everyone has gotten the message. I’m here to change that perspective.
Public libraries, which provide free access to learning resources, technologies and educational programming, are more critical than ever given the drastic cuts to public education spending and loss of income experienced by millions of families.
More than 16,000 libraries in Florida and nationwide are providing a lifeline for communities as they adapt to changing economic realities. They play an important role in allowing everyone a chance to succeed. Unemployed workers use library computers to search for and apply for jobs and to develop or refresh software skills. Entrepreneurs get help in researching and developing business plans. Students pursue education programs in library computer labs and study spaces.
Libraries host services and nonprofit organizations that prepare tax returns, navigate insurance paperwork, and help people file for assistance. People may have a difficult time finding these services elsewhere, especially at no charge.
At a time when many people think Internet access is everywhere, three out of 10 adults in the United States lack a home broadband connection. Yet the need for efficient Internet access to accomplish everyday tasks expands rapidly. From tax forms to driver license renewals or applying for health insurance, unemployment benefits or food assistance, many government offices have closed over the years and moved much of their business online.
Library Internet makes it possible for everyone to access necessary government services no matter their circumstance. Even those with reliable home Internet turn to libraries following large-scale disasters such as hurricanes or personal disasters such as a home fire. Library computers are used to file FEMA and insurance claims, seek housing, pay bills, purchase necessities and communicate with loved ones.
Libraries are community meeting spaces: We host foreign language classes, photography clubs, writers groups, knitting circles, book clubs, gardeners, astronomers, computer gamers, poets and musicians. Life skills programs teach personal finance, health and nutrition and many levels of computer proficiency. Libraries help people experience the greater world through multicultural media, creative crafts programs and performing arts events.
Public libraries are learning places for all ages through the diversity of experiences available.
The Pew Internet and American Life Project reports that nine out of 10 Americans say their local public library improves the quality of life. And lest “quality of life” be construed as “nice to have but not essential,” please realize that basic quality of life expected by most of us includes a place to live, an education, the ability to feed our families, the support of family and friends, and the opportunity to exercise our democratic rights in society. Libraries help make all those things possible through free access to important information and technology.
Libraries still are what you expect them to be: safe, welcoming public spaces with lots of useful and enjoyable publications. We have lots of computers. We provide free wireless access. You can check out a DVD or an audio book or find a quiet place to work or read. Libraries are still the places where preschool children develop language and motor skills in storytime activities. Libraries are still the places where librarians answer questions, help with homework and recommend a good book to read.
Libraries are what you expect them to be. They are that, and they are so much more.
Libraries will endure because they empower positive changes in their communities. What are the challenges or opportunities you see in Okaloosa County? Do you see a need that the library might help meet? Your Okaloosa County Public Library Cooperative would like to hear from you.
Please share your suggestions with our member libraries in Crestview, Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Mary Esther, Niceville and Valparaiso, or email me at vstever@co.okaloosa.fl.us.

Vicky Stever is coordinator of the Okaloosa County Public Library Cooperative.
 

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