By Melissa Chapman

Cataloging Supervisor

Libraries are community centers that rock! According to a Gallup Poll in 2019, Americans used the library more than any other leisure activity including going to the movies. As utilizing your library is free and quite a few activities cost money, it makes total sense.

Whether because they offer services like free Wi-Fi, movie rentals, or programs for children. Libraries are most used by young adults, women and residents of low-income households. Most people visited libraries to borrow books while 29 percent over the age of 16 went to use computers, the internet or public Wi-Fi. In the digital age, libraries remain an important fixture in communities. On average Americans went to the library 10.5 trips with seeing a movie being 5.3 trips in a year.

This survey offers encouraging facts showing libraries are beloved institutions across the nation. People are using libraries today, be it to read, research, or surf the internet, and still remain an important fixture in our communities.

Many libraries also offer classes and training for adults and kids — including computer literacy, foreign language skills, yoga and meditation. These tax-funded community centers also provide tax forms.

Librarians today help with job searches, teach computer skills, even show new owners of e-readers how their devices work. They are re-imagining traditional story hours, hosting craft programs for children — and sometimes even bringing animals into the library.

Libraries have stood the test of time, which is good news for book lovers, those needing to drop in for internet use, or anyone just looking for some quiet time. Research suggests that libraries and librarians are thriving and here to stay.

Libraries continue to evolve to maximize what they offer their communities. The Warsaw Community Public library would like to thank everyone for supporting your local libraries. You as a community allow us to continue serving the community in a unique and valuable way and be your lifeline to the world and all the information in it.