In return, the public is leaning more on libraries to support their kids during the pandemic. Before coronavirus forced school and business closures, Americans already viewed libraries as essential to communities. But since shutdowns began back in March, use of library services has increased sharply. Digital book loans have skyrocketed, with children’s e-book checkouts more than doubling since the COVID-19 closures began, according to a report from NPR. A majority of libraries have made borrowing digital media easier by relaxing and extending online renewal policies, offering a wider range of ebooks and streaming media, and increased virtual programming, according to a Public Library Association survey.
Though it doesn’t look like it has in years before, what’s important is…