Urban Public Libraries

The 'public-ness' of a library has evolved over time with relation to how the society in which it operates is functioning. Even today there are obvious discrepancies across the globe, but more specifically across the country that demonstrate this point. Depending on where a library is located, how public it is varies. Although on the surface a library that is technically open to the public may be advertised as such, there are often procedures that make it possible for library institutions to reduce the amount of foot traffic from worrisome patrons. The example that was most discussed was that of the homeless. Although I agree that there needs to be some safety procedures in place to account for a possible emergency situation, this can be argued with any demographic. People from all walks of life can be a potential threat and alienating homeless individuals does not solve the underlying problem of the gaping holes evident within many communities educational or social programs. Rather than ostracizing individuals, teach them.