Libraries

Cross-posted from "What were the practical consequences of Internet Archive losing their court case?" by @Yingwu@lemmy.dbzer0.com in !books@lemmy.world

It was talked about like a really big deal, and that it dealt a blow towards the Controlled Digital Lending-scheme. IA also had to remove 500k books. But how is Internet Archive able to keep continuing lending out many books as they were before? What were the real consequences of Hachette v. Internet Archive?

This might be the end of Libby/Hoopla/Boundless for a lot of smaller library systems. :(

The EveryLibrary Institute is collecting and analyzing polling and surveys about book bans, anti-access legislation, and the perception of libraries/librarians to help advocates quickly find and interpret results.

Archive.is link for those who need it.

https://archive.is/2025.01.24-235309/https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/24/us/politics/education-dept-ends-book-ban-investigations.html

I'm always amazed to see how some of my friends are just able to read any book recommended to them with no hesitation at all; whereas with me, I need to research what kind of book it is, what ideas the book will be wrestling with, the author and their writing style. Like currently, I am struggling to give "Being and Time" by Martin Heidegger a try as I am more of a fan of Bertrand Russel and analytical philosophy which seems to be scientific in nature -- especially when compared to that of Heidegger, so I've heard. I feel that if I am spending my time reading something, that I should come away at the end of the book having learned something of value (to me, that's a pretty subjective statement). I think this is a good thing, as just about every book I've chosen to read has been an enlightening and somewhat euphoric experience that cannot be replaced. I wonder though, does anyone else relate?

Cross-posted from "Libraries are offering free health and wellness classes across the US" by @MicroWave@lemmy.world in !health@lemmy.world

Summary

Libraries across the U.S. are expanding their roles to offer public health programs, from mobile clinics and mental health resources to cooking classes and blood pressure monitors.

Programs like Milwaukee’s mobile health clinic and Kansas City’s Libraries with Heart improve access to care, often encouraging patrons to seek further medical attention.

In rural areas like Texas, libraries connect communities to vital resources, combatting isolation and addressing needs like mental health and end-of-life planning.

These initiatives highlight libraries’ growing role as inclusive public health hubs, addressing gaps in traditional healthcare systems.