As previously mentioned, libraries as a whole have changed over the years. With the increasing use of technology, many people prefer to get their information online from home instead of in books or through databases at a library. I interviewed my grandmother Linda DeStefanis, who was born in 1947, about what a library means to her. In her words a library is, “an opportunity to be in touch with the rest of the world and to have the accessibility of literary works without having to spend a lot of money.” She currently is a member at two libraries and says that she prefers going to a library over using online resources. I asked her how she thinks the role of a library has changed and she said, “The library is more up to date, there are more events and it is not just used for books anymore. In March and April they even have services that help people do their taxes. They also were administering the flu shot. I still see kids using the services, they have play groups for them some days during the week, also.” Nick Micho talks of his involvement on the committee to build a new library in Glassboro and he states, “If you havent been to the library [Glassboro Public Library] you have to go over and see what it looks like. It would be a good comparison of a library from antiquity, to the pretty good library that you have here [Campbell Library].” Both of these active library goers see the changes that libraries have undergone in the last few years. Libraries seem to be trying to adapt to the growth of technology by providing online services, such as the one that Campbell Library provides, and providing free wifi and free use of computers and printers. It seems that what once was just a place to find books and references, has now turned into more of a community center where you can bring your children or participate in activities yourself. Some of the responses from my survey reveal why some people utilize the library and find it still important today. Below I have listed the responses exactly as they wrote them:

“I love using the library at Rowan as a great study spot! I use my public library at home to get books to read over the summer. I love libraries!”

“I use the library in my town all the time in the summer because I read when I have free time and don't like buying books. I also rent DVDs of TV shows/movies - such a great resource we often neglect to think about because of netflix etc.!”

“I have been able to find and check out books. The books I've used aid my research for college assignments. It is also a great place on campus for me to print assignments when needed.”

“When my daughter was little, we had such good times participating in the children’s library program at the Pitman library. Once a week, the children’s librarian read a story and provided an activity related to the story.”

“The librarians at Cinnaminson Library ran a mother daughter book club which I adored as a child.”

“Always aids in obtaining materials from other libraries. Very helpful.”

“Loved the young children programs they had when my children were young.”

“When I was in school I spent a lot of time there studying. It gave me a great quiet place.”

“The library has always been a quiet place where I can get free wifi and study.”

“The library helped me expand on the vast array of genres I enjoy reading.”

“Useful for research. Home library great for finding leisure books.”

It seems that many people have good memories of libraries. When interviewing my grandmother she also stated, “One of my fondest memories of the library is when I first moved to Washington Township from Philly and I used to take my children to the library on the Fourth of July and we would sit and watch the fireworks from the window because it was less crowded.” My mother stated that her fondest memory of libraries were, “bringing her kids to the library and picking out books and movies all together.”