An op-ed article published by Forbes, that suggested local public libraries be replaced by Amazon book stores, elicited strong pushback on social media.
It caused such a stir that Forbes decided to pull the piece, saying, in part, that, "Forbes advocates spirited dialogue on a range of topics, including those that often take a contrarian view… This article was outside of this contributor’s specific area of expertise, and has since been removed."
That article, written by Long Island University Economics Professor Panos Mourdoukoutas, argued, among other things, that if Amazon would open their bookstores in place of local public libraries, the end result would save those communities a lot of money in taxes.
What the article failed to account for, and what library-goers answered in resounding fashion, are the many community offerings the library offers card-carrying members. Here are 10 programs, services and other cool things (outside of checking out books) that the Sacramento Public Library has to offer:
Meet the community!
- Libraries have the ability to provide a sense and a space for the community. Some of the meet-ups include book clubs, story time for toddlers, movie nights, writer’s club for teens, and other community gatherings.
Job coaching!
- If you’re looking for a job, one of the best places to start your search is at the library. Job seekers can learn how to write a better resume, develop their interview skills, and more.
Tutoring!
- Whether it is online or in-home, trained library volunteers are available every day from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. offering homework assistance in all subject areas.
Special needs services!
- The library has many programs available for autistic and special needs patrons and their families. Some of those programs include communication tablets for non-verbal patrons, “sensory story time”, autism friendly family movie night, and more.
Adult learning!
- The Sacramento Public Library offers one-on-one tutoring for adults in areas like graduate equivalency degrees and high school diplomas. They also have adult literacy and English as a second language classes.
Trace your family history!
- The library offers extensive access to databases and online archives, as well as free consultations with genealogy experts, to help members to trace their family tree.
Learn new languages!
- A program that just started at the Sacramento Public Library in September 2017, Mango Languages gives members the opportunity to study more than 70 languages, including English, and practice that language “through conversation and cultural immersion.”
Games!
- You can check out newly released video games and consoles. You can also check out a wide range of board games to enjoy with friends and family.
Make stuff!
- The Sacramento Public Library’s “Makerspace” gives patrons access to tools for creating music, virtual and real-world modeling, virtual reality, and 3D printing!
Veterans services!
- The library is a great place to start for veterans looking for help transition back to civilian life. Vets can utilize library and met one-on-one with volunteers and other veterans to learn about their benefits, finding jobs, how to manage PTSD, dealing with change and other community resources.
Many local libraries offer these services, and also their own unique programs and services. But there is only one way to find out what those services are, so be sure to visit your local library!