Why libraries are better than e-books

With technology advancing quickly the way it is, things are so much more accessible online and even the written book, which has existed for centuries, is being replaced by e-books. But this one change isn't necessarily beneficial. Libraries not only are good for your mind as they are peaceful and calming, without potentially hurting your eyes, but they allow you to study and be able to ask for help from librarians. Another thing is, apart from all the wonderful books they have, libraries offer a range of activities and clubs to allow you to be social and find some new friends, all while being able to do your hobbies. E-books may be 'efficient', but they don't provide all the benefits that libraries come with.

Libraries are the ideal place someone goes to when they want to be at peace. The quietness of libraries has a calming effect, and talking with a calm person is much nicer than talking to someone constantly stressed and angry. Even walking to the library has a more soothing effect on your mind than being cooped up in your home with your tablet, making your eyes tired and droopy. When you hear the word 'library' itself, the first thing that usually pops up in your mind is that it's a calm and tranquil place, isn't it? Well, even taking the smallest trip to your local library will prove more beneficial for your body and mind than burying your face into a computer screen ever will.

Being calming and good for your health isn't the only thing libraries can do. Libraries help bring communities together and have a history behind them. People who need a job can always work at the library, and libraries also play a role in the economy to benefit others. Libraries also offer the education that some people might not receive, as they're free and easily accessible. Poor and homeless people can learn by just going to the library and reading books. This is how libraries might even change lives of some people.

E-books don't allow you to be social. In fact, they might as well keep you inside for longer. But libraries offer things like clubs, activities and workshops to keep you busy. This way, not only can you possibly discover a new hobby, but you can find new friends who find a similar interest. There is always an activity you might be interested in, that isn't always about reading or books. Board game clubs, calligraphy activities, knitting or videogame clubs are all things your local library probably offers. Many parents also find group reading (where someone reads books to toddlers and babies) really helpful in helping their child calm down and start a love of reading with friends. Libraries sometimes aren't all about books, they're about connecting with other people and making friendships, which is something that e-books don't give you.

So next time you have a science project, boredom or a crying toddler on your hands, try going to the library for once instead of having your eyes glued to a phone. You'll find yourself having a better time that way, and being able to use your time on a more rewarding and valuable experience. Maybe you can find a new friend there, but you'll never know unless you go!