Public Libraries Dbq

Because libraries provide research tools and information, public libraries will continue to have a role in the future since many people consistently use them for different resources. Free and open access of information to the public is necessary for a democratic society. In order to have a well-functioning society, all citizens must be informed about the goings-on in their country. Public libraries readily provide access to these things. This makes libraries vital for the society to survive. In the 1730s, Benjamin Franklin founded the first public library and by the late 19th century, public libraries “continued the educational process where the schools left off” (Source A). Franklin believed that sharing information was important for the nation to

Providing the resources to the public for educational development is still as important as it was when Franklin developed the first library. In addition, libraries provide magazines and newspapers to help the public stay informed with their local and state government and communities. It wasn't until mid-20th century that the public had access to the internet. Without the internet, the public relied on newspapers, the radio, and books in order to learn what has happened and what is currently happening. Libraries provided access to all of these things in order to help the public stay informed. In addition, President Roosevelt “equated libraries and democracy” during World War II (Source A). Roosevelt knew that by providing libraries and access to information, the public would be at ease and would feel as if they were participating in the country’s decision of involvement in the war. Nowadays, information can be acquired via internet, which is accessible through tablets, laptops, smartphones, and more. However, not everyone has the ability to obtain or afford these items which helps libraries to flourish. Public libraries provide hard copies of different information and also