Libraries

A library used to simply be a collection of books. Libraries could mean the actual books or the building that the books were located in. Often, the word library meant both. Now, in the age of technology, libraries are much more that. The resources that a library has can now include not only books but computer and Internet access, movies, audio books, tutors and a host of other sources.

• Most libraries are public libraries because they are paid for by public sources such as local tax money. Public libraries are used by people who either cannot or will not purchase all the books they may need or want to read. As a method of free entertainment, public libraries are considered wonderful places for individuals, especially children, to spend free time. Many people who cannot afford computers can sign up for blocks of time to reserve a computer. Libraries offer computer use for both research and recreation. It is up to the individual to decide what to do on the library computers. There are some websites that are not allowed to be viewed from these library computers, since they are public.

• Libraries are arranged by departments in various classification systems. Non-fiction books are broken down into sections within the libraries and organized by the Dewey Decimal system. The Dewey Decimal System is organized by numbers. After those numbers and a decimal, there are letters showing the section within the library that the book is in. The books are then shelved in the library according to numbers. There are computers in libraries that can find information about the book that an individual is looking for. These computers can also tell someone if the library has that book, and if they do not what other libraries do have it. The library could then order this book for the individual or the person can go to the other library to pick it up. Libraries used to have card catalogs to help a person find the material they wanted. Computers have online databases listing the books within a library that is much quicker and easier to use.

• Fiction books in libraries are classified by author, and they are alphabetical. Although libraries will usually have a special sections for teens and children, adult fiction is not usually broken into categories. Some libraries however, do have a special section for newer books.

Libraries can be great places to complete homework, do Internet research, or just check out books to enjoy or learn from. Some libraries even host poetry readings and visiting authors. There are many things to do at a library that can be fun and free.