Library Books Versus Owned Books

I own a Kindle, but I rarely use it. Not because I’m opposed to e-readers; far from it. My Kindle has been invaluable when I’ve travelled for longer periods and don’t want to take heavy novels. When at home, though, I only read physical books borrowed from my local library. One reason is the simple pleasure of holding an actual paperback or hardback. The cover, the pages — I enjoy the feel of a book in my hands in a way I’ve never felt with a screen. Another reason, though, is also because I believe in supporting libraries.

Some people see libraries as old-fashioned. I don’t. I view them as national treasures, ones we shouldn’t take for granted. My local library is extensive, warm, and welcoming. It offers far more than free book loans — although the shelves of crime fiction and psychological thrillers would be enough to keep me loyal. It hosts free or low-cost events, language classes, useful drop-in sessions, and support for people who may be vulnerable, isolated, or in need of somewhere safe and friendly. That matters.

What else? Let’s not forget the joy of browsing. I love wandering along the stacks, picking novels by authors I’ve never tried before, being tempted by covers, titles, blurbs, and the promise of dark secrets waiting to be revealed. Libraries make that sort of discovery feel easy. If a book isn’t for me, I can return it. No guilt or squandered money. So yes, I own a Kindle. But my heart belongs to library books.

What about you? Do you borrow books, buy them, read on an e-reader — or happily do all three?