For many the idea of the library as a place where things slow down, where one reads, studies, ponders without hurry is central. People disagree about whether this library fulfills that dream. Computers and the Internet are a challenge, but not a substitute for libraries. Librarians are information professionals who can navigate through the maze of material and drivel on the Internet. The information age, such as it is, raises the value of libraries and presents many challenges such as the need for more computers and help for people who fear them.
Libraries are crucial to democracy.
They provide information about public issues and access to information and pleasure for all income levels. Providing equality of opportunity requires vigorous outreach. Those who have computers at home need the library, but those who do not need it even more. The library cannot fulfill its function if people do not know what it has, what it can do and why they might go there. If people do not know what the library has and does, then it cannot fulfill its ends.