cameronc52•25d agoProlific Poster

Warning: I was at the public library in Tacoma and saw a huge line for the 'Ask Anything' desk that was just for basic internet searches.

3 comments

3 Comments

Actually, that's the reference desk... they help with a lot more than just internet searches. It's a pretty important library service.

the_nina24d ago

Yeah the "important library service" part is so true. People forget librarians are trained to find stuff you can't just google, like old local records or specific academic papers. It's a skill that doesn't get enough credit. They basically save you from hitting dead ends online all day.

the_riley17d ago

My local paper did a story on this. The librarian they interviewed said most people in line need help filling out online forms for jobs or housing benefits. They don't have a computer or printer at home, so they need someone to walk them through the whole process. It's way more than just looking up a fact.