Despite the prevalence of smartphones, libraries remain relevant for young people. Contrary to expectations, they actively engage with libraries, indicating their continued importance in the digital age.

A Third Place

Author Lora Kelley wrote that she spent time at their local library as a child in elementary school, feeling a sense of maturity. Approaching the librarian confidently, she would discuss the chapter books she intends to read during the summer. Beyond appreciating public libraries for their resources, Kelley cherished these spaces as communities where people shared a common interest in learning and spending time in a public setting.

Facing Book Bans, Budget Cuts, and Societal Struggles

Libraries and their caretakers have grappled with challenges in recent years, facing book bans that extend from schools to public libraries, particularly affecting titles dealing with race and gender issues. Librarians endure harassment and stress while being on the front lines of societal problems like masking debates, homelessness, the opioid crisis, and growing public anger. Financial strains compound these challenges with bureaucratic hurdles, such as budget cuts leading to library closures, and ideological battles, including attempts by Missouri's Republican-led House to defund the state's libraries earlier this spring.

The recent surge in attacks on libraries threatens not only education and literacy but also jeopardizes spaces widely used by Americans, particularly young people. According to a 2022 study by the American Library Association (ALA), over half of Gen Z and Millennials surveyed had visited a physical library in the previous year. Even among those who did not identify as readers, more than half still saw the library, indicating alternative reasons such as events, classes, or seeking community.

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Libraries as Dynamic Spaces Defying Digital-Only Assumptions

Teens, commonly associated with constant phone use, surprisingly engage with print books, with younger Gen Z members reported reading more print books than their older counterparts. Print remains the preferred format for Gen Z respondents, challenging the assumption of a digital-only preference. The physical presence of books fosters discovery, providing a welcome break from screens and enriching online experiences, as noted by Emily Drabinski, president of the ALA. The findings suggest a more nuanced view, rejecting binary distinctions between digital and print worlds and acknowledging the simultaneous existence of both in people's lives.

Libraries extend beyond books and reading as essential third places for programming, services, and social interaction. They uniquely embody cross-class spaces, offering accessibility to diverse communities. Emphasizing inclusivity, libraries are public resources accommodating various needs, even as simple as providing restroom access. The welcoming approach underscores their commitment to serving the public in multiple capacities, fostering a sense of community and support for all individuals, regardless of their primary reason for utilizing library services.

Library Resilience

In conclusion, despite the prevalence of smartphones, libraries remain relevant for young people, actively engaging with them and maintaining importance in the digital age. Libraries face challenges, including book bans and financial strains, with librarians at the forefront of societal issues. Recent attacks on libraries jeopardize essential spaces widely used by Americans, particularly young generations.

Contrary to assumptions about teens' constant phone use, they actively engage with print books, challenging the assumption of digital-only preferences. Libraries serve as vital third places, fostering inclusivity, supporting diverse communities, and providing essential services like restroom access.

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