[Cthulhu_]

There was a thread yesterday about closing public libraries, and this sentiment ties into that; open and free access to information is important, because a lack thereof causes people to become blinkered and close-minded, which in turn makes them more susceptible for populist talking points (that is, a populist politician or propaganda telling you there is a Problem; when people don't have factual information to the contrary, or even a mindset of curiosity ("is that actually true?") they are more likely to accept it).

Hence, book burnings, censorship, and suppression of free speech are problematic.

(That said, I also believe that free speech should be curtailed on platforms with large audiences)

[tmnvix]

I have a great appreciation for public libraries. I consider them to be one of the best examples of a public institution. They provide much more than just information. Everyone has the same access and privileges. They are just about the only warm, quiet, and comfortable space that isn't somehow exclusive or privately controlled. For someone without access to their own space (i.e. a stable home) they provide a place to find respite from an often hostile environment.

Libraries are a treasure that represent the best of humanity.

Having lived in quite a few different cities and towns, I've come to the conclusion that the quality of the library (i.e. of the space, atmosphere, and resources provided) correlates with the quality of the community.

[Sleepful]

As a student that can't focus in loud places and that had to live in a loud place... Gah.

[tomByrer]

With web or other searching, every 'platform has a large audience'.

One of the worst censor/suppressor of free speech is also the largest web search.