Libraries, Internet

Are Physical Public Libraries Doomed? Singapore Might Have the Answer

FirstPost host Palki Sharma discusses the rapid global decline in library attendance, discussing the reasons for it and how it might still be possible to attract people back to the stacks.

Fewer people come to check out libraries' bookshelves every year. What can be done? (Photo: Kateryna Onyshchuk/Shutterstock)

Library attendance is in decline all over the world - from the US and UK to India and South Africa. Even when libraries don't close down, they are often very sparsely attended. Why?

FirstPost host Palki Sharma argues that the proliferation of the internet, especially online libraries and resources, has ended the monopoly the physical library once had on easy and free public access to knowledge.

In order to save physical libraries, she recommends following in the footsteps of Singapore, which has invested a great deal of money in modernizing libraries and including places for adults and children to socialize.

Watch the whole thing here:

0 Comments

Do not send comments that include inflammatory words, defamation, and content that exceeds the limit of good taste.

Israel-Gaza War

Report: Israel increasing pressure on Biden admin for weapons shipments

The systems in question are unrelated to the 2,000 pound bombs the White House has been holding up over civilian casualty concerns.

Avi Woolf | 25.07.24

Music, Tomorrowland

Watch as Israeli DJ Skazi electrifies crowd at Tomorrowland 2024

Israeli DJ Skazi turns Tomorrowland's global dance floor into a platform for solidarity and hope.

Gila Isaacson | 24.07.24

TV Review, Cobra Kai

As the dojo doors close, 'Cobra Kai' grapples with its legacy

The beloved "Karate Kid" spin-off enters its final round with a mix of nostalgia and new twists. As old rivalries evolve and fresh challenges emerge, "Cobra Kai" aims to land one last epic punch before bowing out.

Gila Isaacson | 23.07.24

Israel-Gaza War, United Arab Emirates, Biden Administration

Report: Israel, U.S., UAE Held Secret Talks on Postwar Gaza in Abu Dhabi

In a covert meeting in Abu Dhabi, Israel, the U.S., and the UAE discussed postwar Gaza plans, amid growing international pressure for a viable management strategy for the region.

Gila Isaacson | 23.07.24

Israel-Gaza War, Antisemitism

"Here I am": Shai Davidai launches new podcast on antisemitism

The Columbia University professor, famous for confronting antisemitism on campus, is now taking his efforts to the world of podcasting.

Avi Woolf | 22.07.24

Those About To Die, Berenice, TV Series

Discover ancient Rome's Jewish princess: Berenice shines in new TV drama 'Those About to Die'

Berenice, the Jewish queen who loved the Roman conqueror of Jerusalem, is the star of a gripping new TV series that brings her storied past to life.

Avi Nachmani | 22.07.24

Politics, United States

Smotrich: US sanctions - a mortal blow to sovereignty

Finance Minister Betzalel Smotrich responded to reports that the US plans to sanction him, saying that such an act is a "mortal blow to Israeli sovereignty."

Liran Vainshtain, JFeed Staff | 21.07.24

Anti-Semitism, American Actor, Mark  

Mark Raffaello: "Stop considering Israel a democracy"

In yet more spouts of Anti-Semitism, American actor Mark Raffaello shares that the Israeli police banned the "Standing Together" organization from marching in Jerusalem against the war and writes: "When can we stop considering Israel a democracy?"

Eliana Fleming, JFeed Staff | 18.07.24

Movies, Scarlett Johansson, Channing Tatum

Scarlett Johansson shines in 'Shoot Me to the Moon' (Movie Review plus Trailer!)

Cosmic rom-com adventure? Yes please. Scarlett Johansson and Channing Tatum star in "Shoot Me to the Moon," where 1960s space race meets modern-day humor and heart. It's the perfect movie to lift your spirits this weekend!

Gila Isaacson | 18.07.24

Singapore, Israel-Gaza War

Singapore’s Defense Minister: Gaza conflict incites new generation of terrorists 

Ng Eng Hen points out that the young in Singapore are angered by the ongoing violence and inaction.

Avi Nachmani | 17.07.24

Iran, United States

Iran denies any involvement in assassination plots against Trump, claims following legal avenues

The Iranian mission to the UN called reports in the US media regarding Iranian plots to assassinate Trump to be "unsubstantiated and malicious."

Avi Woolf | 17.07.24

United Kingdom, King Charles III

King Charles III: Government committed to two state solution

In a speech to Parliament laying out the British government's goals, King Charles III briefly mentioned the new Labour government's commitment to a two state solution.

Avi Woolf | 17.07.24