Does Sioux Falls Still Need a Public Library?

Yes, in this day of digital there still exists an actual building we call a library.

In Sioux Falls alone we have five public libraries.  And then in several surrounding towns.

Do we need a library any longer?  Of course we do.

Let me take you back to the time when your parents or grandparents took you to check out a storybook.  It was like going to a candy store with so many choices.  "I want that one, and that one.  And, if I could only reach up there I'd take that one too!"

My home town of Redfield still has one of the finest small town Carnegie libraries in the state.  I remember one of my first visits:  the old hardwood creaky floors, the tall back wood and leather chairs.  And everyone had their own library card.  When you checkout a book the librarian opened the front cover, slide out the date card, stamped it and you were on your way.  Does this sound a little dated?  Yep.

Now, move forward several decades.  Books have bar codes, your library card is on your keyring and most books are read online.  Sure I do it all the time.  About every third or fourth book I read has actual paper pages and I go to the library to check it out.  And it still reminds me of creaky floors.

I'll repeat the question:  Do we still need a public library?

Same answer as above.