When was the last time you visited your local public library? There’s no time like the present, especially since it’s National Library Week. Libraries are essential spaces — they’re emblematic of a “third place,” an academic term referring to somewhere separate from home and work wherein people can find community and comfort. (Other ‘third places’ include churches, coffee shops, and salons.) Public libraries are also some of the last remaining places you can visit — to access resources or just find a little peace — without spending any money. Sadly, many public libraries have been struggling to stay afloat after the pandemic. This means they’re more worthy of our support than ever.
There are some misconceptions about libraries, of course. Maybe you’ve got a childhood memory of being shushed by stern librarians, or assume they’re merely a place to borrow books (though with
