Do you think that now that we have Spotify and other apps that have a large number of free books, it's necessary to get a library card?

Question

jmr2191 · Accepted Answer

I think there is something different about picking uo a physical book and reading it, which a digital screen just cannot replicate. A library is also not only a book rental operation- it is a unique type of community center. At a time when isolation and loneliness are more of an issue than ever, I think the value of a public library has only risen. While spotify, project gutenberg, and other initiatives have made books more accessible and serve as valuable resources, I'd argue they don't replace a public library.

BCRanger10 · Accepted Answer

Yes, people should still have library cards. It's good to get outside yourself and your comfortable domain and go explore somewhere, to think about and navigate it, to have an objective in mind and pursue it. With Spotify and other stuff like that, it's just... there. You don't experience the thrill of the search or the joy of discovery.

Cinematic Lily · Accepted Answer

With apps like Spotify offering audiobooks and countless free reading apps, the necessity of a library card has shifted. However, libraries provide unique benefits such as access to rare books, community events, and a quiet space to read or study. They also offer resources like book recommendations and expert advice. So, while not essential for everyone, a library card still has great value, especially for those who love physical books or seek a more traditional experience. 🌟📚

CupcakeTheDestroyer · Answer

So “free” isn’t exactly true. It’s closer to “freemium” meaning it’s free with ads. Apps like spotify and kindle have subscription services that allow you to bypass some of the very annoying ads, but you also sign a contract agreeing to let them sell whatever data you agree to give them which, at minimum, is your identifying account info like your email and phone number. And even if you hit every button that says you want to remain private, it doesn’t change the fact that you, the customer, are still a valuable point of data that has the potential to make them a lot of money whether or not you agree to allow them.

On the other hand, libraries are truly free. You only have to confirm that you live in the area and suddenly you have access to all kinds of free books, movies, music, games, not to mention all of the services the library provides for any willing participants. My local library in particular will host lots of free movie nights for families, it also hosts tai chi classes and free classes for specialized subjects. They’re an incredibly valuable resource, not to mention a titular 3rd location that isn’t your home, or a place where you have to spend money to enjoy it. Getting a library card just allows you to take books home (and also access to the libby e-book app for free) you can just go in there and read as you please. I’m personally of the belief that libraries are an insanely valuable public service and even if I don’t regularly use said services, I still make sure to get a library card. The fact that I have one tells my local government that they’re still useful and deserving of the federal funding they receive in order to function as they are. It’s much less insidious in comparison, in my opinion.

Chazmatazz269 · Answer

It’s not necessary, but it’s definitely beneficial. Reading engages more of the brain than listening to someone else read. The books you find in the library are very likely different from what you might find online. Their collection has been curated over years, decades, or even centuries. The selection online is most likely a compilation of the most popular classics and the best marketed contemporary selections, further whittled by how many times they get accessed over a given month. Everything in between may as well not even exist, and there are millions of great books that fall in between.
Libraries are also social environments. We already have too many excuses to avoid other people. Our society and culture are rotting because antisocial behavior comes easily when people refuse to engage with others in person. Go to the library. Meet people, talk about books, movies and music. Yes, most modern libraries offer all three. Read something. Join a book club and enjoy reading with other people.
When libraries are gone, there will be nothing left of human civilization worth preserving.

WindAtMyBack · Answer

The library has real books, DVDs, CDs, etc. I go there regularly, and so do lots of other people. They provide access to online services that are normally paid services. I use Hoopla, Kanopy, etc. I also use the online car repair manuals. I've checked out hundreds of music CDs.

They have all kinds of events, especially events for kids. They have meeting rooms that I used when tutoring. Those meeting rooms get a lot of use.

I can also order books from anywhere in the world. I have not used that service, but I have used the service to get books from other cities in the US. This is a great service since it gives access to books and other media from thousands of libraries around the world.

Abbycado · Answer

For me, it’s not. I have to buy my textbooks and get a digital copy to retain when I sell them back.

Those are the most important books right now as they relate to my education. There are enough resources online to fill gaps.

As for non educational things, we have a massive campus library I can use for free.

Unycorn · Answer

Yes, that is necessary. It's so much easier to manipulate digitally. You only show what you think you see. A physical library is more objective. And it is not the same to read a book or to use a digital service

ohsheeT · Answer

Yes because a library has more than just books. They are an asset in so many different ways for people of all ages

mysteriousNicholas · Answer

What I can say, is as someone who doesn't use spotify - I enjoy the "bragging rights" of having my physical driver's licence and my physical debit cards, for many years now 💳💳💳💳 👀👀👀👀 📚📖

avery58 · Answer

Sure, why not? I like reading hard copy books.

Anonymous · Answer

I find it weird that they make you wait for digital books because somebody else has the digital book out... so anything that replaces the library card is a good thing.

Xawyx-2 · Answer

I think it's always necessary to have a library card.

DrPepper12 · Answer

HELL YES!!! The temple of wisdom isn't just digital!!!

Anonymous · Answer

It hasn't been necessary to have a library card since 1992.

MemeSupreme · Answer

idkk about you but i like huffing old books

thegreenyogi · Answer

It could be a good idea.

scott04sa22 · Answer

My library card is digital now.

panera · Answer

I shouldn’t even have libraries anymore

linka_pat307 · Answer

Definitely

Do you think that now that we have Spotify and other apps that have a large number of free books, it's necessary to get a library card?

Most Helpful Opinions

Most Helpful Opinions

AI Opinion

What Girls & Guys Said

Do you think that now that we have Spotify and other apps that have a large number of free books, it's necessary to get a library card?

Most Helpful Opinions

Most Helpful Opinions

AI Opinion

What Girls & Guys Said

We're glad to see you liked this post.