Many school libraries are becoming less of a focus as technology takes over. For some, this change feels like a loss.
“For many teachers it was a bit sad. We had always seen the library as a place to go when we needed to research or help with projects. That old library smell. I miss it. I wish we had a memento,” one teacher reflected.
With laptops, online databases, and even artificial intelligence, many students no longer see the library as the hub of learning it once was.
“I feel like libraries used to be helpful, but now that we have technology it’s kind of lost the point… AI is taking over. I feel like that’s negative. It’s stopping people from obtaining more information about things,” said senior Wendell Copeland, who is an active member of football and theatre.
Still, others recognize the unique qualities that only libraries can provide.
“I don’t really like how quiet they are,” admits senior Marc Lee. “They give a place of relaxation and a place to study—they are just very quiet.”
For many students, that quiet space is exactly what’s needed in the middle of a busy school day—a place to just take a breath.
Teachers also stress the importance of balance.
“There should be a combination of both… he added.
Even though school libraries may be going out of style, you can still see the value of books in places like Books & Books or Barnes & Noble. These stores continue to attract people who enjoy browsing shelves, flipping through pages, and discovering new stories in a way that technology can’t replace. They show that while digital tools are useful, many people still crave the experience of being surrounded by books. Stores like these remind everyone that reading is not only about information, but also about enjoyment, community, and connection—things that libraries have always offered.
While technology offers instant access to information, libraries still provide something different: community, focus, and the joy of reading physical books. As schools modernize, it’s worth remembering that libraries are more than just shelves of books—they are safe spaces that help students learn, reflect, and grow.
