I love technology. I love social media. I love to learn. I love reading. I love reading online. I love reading offline. Libraries are closing in Camden, NJ. Not one library, but the entire library system. There is no denying we are experiencing challenging economic times, however to close the library system?
As a trained marketing research professional, I identify trends. Given recent cuts made to libraries in Queens, NY, is this a national trend? Do libraries initially close in Camden, NJ then in other cities across this great nation? Will college campuses be spared? Or, is this a one off situation? If a one off situation, does it not seem that Camden, NJ would require library resources as much (if not more) than most communities?
Libraries possess rich resources and most have been updated to include WIFI (free internet) service. In adddition, they are integral parts of robust networks where we can find information that will not be found at a local coffee shop.
Paul LeClerc, president of the New York Public Library, expressed that he began noticing a large increase in library attendance when the stock market went into its steep decline. According to Mr. LeClerc,
“We’ve got more people visiting us (library) now than we’ve had in half a century.”
Educators, principals, teachers, students, people please chime in…
Steve's Space 
austenlover
October 6, 2010
I’ve been wondering if libraries will go the way of the dinosaur due to the predominance of the internet for research and digital books. As a bookworm and lifelong library-lover (and perhaps future librarian), I would hate to see this become a trend. Everyone should know what a book is, as well as the joys of browsing a library. I must admit that doing a research project may be much more attractive using online sources, however. My dilemma is that since I live outside of the city limits, my local library charges over $100 for a library card. I haven’t been able to “afford” the benefits of a library for about 6 years! I understand that it is funded by city taxes, but if they would make the price less steep, they would actually be able to bring in MUCH more funds, since few people are willing to shell that much out. They’d rather just go buy books from a bookstore or online. Especially for children, a library is a wondrous place where they can explore and “happen” upon the book that turns them into a book lover, therefore encouraging them in wanting to read more. I my opinion, this is the foundation of all learning. Without strong reading skills, students either hate school and/or their grades suffer.
So as to the question of libraries closing all over the country, “Please say it isn’t so!”