Some individuals believe that libraries are essential in society as they are places to acquire knowledge and use books, while others contend that computers are more effective and investing in libraries is a waste of money and resources. This essay will discuss both perspectives and explain why I agree with the latter.
On the one hand, advocates of libraries argue that they are still crucial in today’s society because they provide access to accurate information. Unlike online sources, which often include fake news and misleading content, books and materials in libraries are carefully selected and managed. This helps library users gain access to reliable information to read and avoid confusion. Furthermore, libraries are still important for students. This is because when studying in a quiet environment, students can concentrate and learn more effectively. Most public or school libraries are free, which means all students can use them, regardless of their financial backgrounds.
On the other hand, others, including me, believe that libraries are no longer necessary, with the advent of computers. Firstly, the internet updates information much faster than printed books. Although it is true that some information online may be inaccurate, I believe that internet users are more capable of judging which sources are trustworthy. With this ability, people can access the latest news and e-books on digital platforms, which is more convenient than going to libraries. Secondly, the internet offers information in various formats, especially videos, which many people find more engaging than traditional books. For example, a TikTok content creator, whose account is Okay I’m Jay, goes on live streams every day with captivating content to provide free IELTS tips, which makes learning more attractive than spending hours in libraries.
In conclusion, while supporters of libraries see them as places to obtain reliable information and study for students, I firmly believe that computers offer fast access to knowledge and engaging content. The government should invest more in digital learning and internet access rather than libraries.