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In the News

Light on cash? Go to the library.

These trying economic times, which have been proven to be challenging for many businesses, have actually had a positive affect on several libraries throughout the nation. Kate Pohjola, director of Lapeer District Library in Flint, Michigan, has seen a drastically increased percentage of visitors through Lapeer’s doors. But what is the connection?

There are a number of theories that Pohjola feels contribute to this scenario. The first, and possibly most obvious, is that with high gas prices, people are driving less, at home more, and thus reading more. Another reason observed by Pohjola, is that more folks are buying used books from the library, as opposed to buying new books from retail bookstores.

Kristen Valyi-Hax, director of the Ruth Hughes Memorial Library in Imlay City, Michigan, says usage at her library has increased by almost 20 percent since this time last year. She feels that the leading cause for this at Ruth Hughes Memorial is the availability of free DVD rentals. Valyi-Hax’s observations are in agreement with the results found in a national study published earlier this year that says that 37 percent of American consumers plan to spend less on entertainment this year.

Increasing unemployment rates also have a lot to do with the rise in national library usage. Many who are unemployed are choosing to use library computers for typing resumes and job searches — a more economical option than purchasing a personal computer.

According to Jo Anne Mondowney, Flint Public Library director in Flint, Michigan, there has been an increased number of library visitors taking advantage of the low-cost activities and programs available to the public.

"Historically, libraries, public libraries, fare well in tough times. It's been that way since the Depression," said Mondowney.

Source: mLive.com