Libraries offer free access to information.
For a nominal fee, libraries provide free access to a range of books and other resources which most people, even professionals, couldn't afford to obtain on their own. On the other hand, libraries are under considerable pressure - in terms of what their shelf space allows them to keep on hand, and in terms of what books and other materials they can purchase. With budget constraints, libraries are often forced to choose between technology and books when both should be available. Budget constraints also mean limiting the type of service offered. Interlibrary loan, interbranch loans, cooperative agreements with other area libraries and document delivery are our fall back positions, which may provide access to materials that the library system can't afford to own.