Libraries have long been places of community for readers. A space where like-minded people can be found and books can be enjoyed and shared. With a decline in funding for community libraries in both schools and cities, there is a distinct lack of places for readers to go and bond over their love of books.
In an attempt to combat this, there has been an increase in free libraries being found in numerous places across the world. Be that on a beach or in an old phone box. In Edinburgh, there are a number of free community libraries to be found on campus, notably at Pottorrow and Bedlam Theatre. But how frequently are these libraries truly being used?
Across the world there was a drastic decrease in community relations after the COVID-19 pandemic, which left people confined to their homes and away from friends and family. It was during these years that there was a surge in free community libraries which allowed people to stay safe and swap books.
In my hometown, wardrobes piled with books turned up in empty bus stops, making use of the shelters that lay abandoned. Readers could once again trade books, providing a much needed sense of community, and allowing people to read more sustainably.
So, not only do community libraries build back these lost connections, but so too do they reduce overconsumption. It is widely recognised that capitalism and overconsumption keep us lonely, isolating us from our peers and severing the connection that we have to our hobbies.
Furthermore, buying books secondhand (or finding them for free) continues to keep reading an accessible pastime. This is especially necessary on university campuses, where students can find textbooks, or novels, that would often cost a lot of money. These libraries create a cycle of giving back to your community, an essential aspect of keeping them alive.
Outside of the fact that these libraries can foster a sense of community, reduce overconsumption and create a cycle of sharing, they can also be a source of joy for many.
Not only are they pretty to look at, but they can stand as a reminder that books can be found all around the world at any given time. Although there does seem to be a decline in the use of these libraries, as readers it is our job to keep them alive. So, I urge you to keep an eye out for them the next time you are looking for a new book to read. What’s more, bring an old novel that’s collecting dust to replace it and continue the cycle.
Image taken by Rhona Bowie