Libraries and Economics Times

Those of us that have worked in public libraries know that the tougher the economic times, the busier the library becomes. People switch to borrowing books andDVDs instead of buying them. Parents take their children to the library for storytime and programs. The circulation of DVDs and fiction titles is up, and waits for best sellers are longer.

Patrons also are taking advantage of free Internet service at libraries, rather than paying for it at home, The library has the only broadband access for many people and even those with their own laptops are heading to the library where they can use the free Wi-Fi service.

Those that are unemployed or facing unemployment come to use the computers and apply for jobs, update resumes, or search to see what opportunities might be available. Job seekers are finding that many employers are requiring job applicants to apply online and, for folks who aren't used to navigating the Internet, it can be a daunting process. Today's job search process is far more complicated, requiring applicants to have an e-mail address, an online version of their resume and the ability to upload their information to online job site listings.

A large increase of patrons asking for one-on-one training to get e-mail service, help with documents on a flash drive that they need to print. We also hear patrons say their printer ran out of ink at home and they couldn't afford a new ink cartridge so they come to the library, where it's cheaper to print their information.

Kasson Library helps people connect with information and services.