I think that libraries and downloading are in direct opposition because many downloaders seem to be doing it because of their collector's gene. Having to return the books means they can't collect. Seems like the big downloaders have no intention of ever reading the stuff. They just want to have it.
Huh! I've never encountered that, and the idea of collecting something that's not physical seems deeply weird to me. But people are deeply weird, so I guess I shouldn't be surprised!
I'm always puzzled by the suggestion that getting one's books from the library is a lesser or inadequate thing. Libraries buy a helluva lot of books.
Actually, I sort of understand it. For one, there's the clear implication that if you're wealthy enough, you can just buy the books you want.
Second, I think that some people feel awkward about libraries, aren't sure how to use them, don't like them and thus feel more comfortable just buying the book or, perhaps, downloading it. Legally or illegally.
I personally have never felt the library is a lesser thing (I love libraries, and I think they're gorgeous places, even the ones that only have three books and no air conditioning), but I will confess that sometimes, I have enjoyed books and wished that I could keep them so I could re-read them at will.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
no subject
Date: 2009-02-06 03:20 pm (UTC)I'm always puzzled by the suggestion that getting one's books from the library is a lesser or inadequate thing. Libraries buy a helluva lot of books.
no subject
Date: 2009-02-06 03:22 pm (UTC)But I agree with you.
no subject
Date: 2009-02-06 03:24 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2009-02-06 03:44 pm (UTC)Actually, I sort of understand it. For one, there's the clear implication that if you're wealthy enough, you can just buy the books you want.
Second, I think that some people feel awkward about libraries, aren't sure how to use them, don't like them and thus feel more comfortable just buying the book or, perhaps, downloading it. Legally or illegally.
I personally have never felt the library is a lesser thing (I love libraries, and I think they're gorgeous places, even the ones that only have three books and no air conditioning), but I will confess that sometimes, I have enjoyed books and wished that I could keep them so I could re-read them at will.