2. Younger Americans' Library Habits and Expectations (Pew Internet & American Life Project)

2. Younger Americans' Library Habits and Expectations (Pew Internet & American Life Project)

Younger Americans use libraries and its tools such as: books, reading spaces, internet, and databases significantly more that older Americans over the age of 30. Younger Americans have used technology such as: computers and the internet at libraries in the past year; visited a library website; and used a mobile device to visit a public library’s website or access library resources, much more than older Americans. More younger Americans have read an e-book and printed book in the last year than older Americans 30 and above. Some priorities that younger Americans insist for libraries are: have librarians to help people find information they need; offer research resources such as free databases; free access to computers and the internet; offer books for people to borrow; quiet study spaces; and classes for children and teens; and offer job or career resources. Younger Americans also stressed the importance of 'apps that would let them locate library materials within the library or access library services on their phone, as well as library kiosks that would make library materials available throughout the community.'

I found it surprising that even with use of growing technology such as e-books, younger generations are still reading printed books. I hope it to remain steady and not decline because honestly I don't want libraries or heaven forbid books-a-million go out of business. I prefer printed, hard copy books over electronic copy books. I figured with the growing technology that has boomed as of late, would initially wipe out the need for  libraries. I remember in school the library being right across the road from the school and I had to visit it often because we were required to read a certain amount of books for rewards. But nowadays students have iPad, e-books and the like so what is the point in visiting a library when you can just digital download a book and read. I do not foresee students visiting libraries regularly after the next 20 years, even less.