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.
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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.