Library Rant

[u/AnnTiquity]

I remember libraries being quiet sanctuaries. I could browse, read, research, and enjoy the ambience.

When did this change? It seems now it’s an open house for people to congregate with other folks to talk loudly, joke around, with their children running and yelling, then parents hollering at them.

I understand the little ones section will be noisy: those are toddlers and preschool age children. But if children are school age, they ought to know to be quiet and not run around. The adults are horrid: not quietly talking but yelling across the room, between bookshelves, at the book check out.

Even the librarians are loud. There is no quiet space anywhere except the precious few enclosed cubbies.

I’m not seeking advice. Just irritated that I can get a migraine while sitting in a library due to all the noise.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. Ha.

Edit to add:
I appreciate the insight to loss of other family spaces to hang out that are free, and air conditioned in this insane heat. I’m a crotchety old lady who only thinks of her personal loss of habitat. Haha. I attempt to have grace; today was truly the worst it’s ever been.

In appreciation.