this post was submitted on 20 Aug 2023
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Libraries

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How do libraries tend to operate outside of the US? (literature.cafe)
submitted 1 year ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]
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I know Canadian libraries operate similarly, but I mean more so like in Europe. Are they as big there as they are here? And do they require fees to join, or are paid via taxes like here as well?

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[–] [email protected] 2 points 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago)

I saw a list somewhere of libraries around the world that allow non-residents to have access. In general, most libraries are restricted to local residents.

In Belgium, there are two library networks, a French network and a Dutch network. The French network gives people a gratis membership. The Dutch network charges €5/year.

I’ve not heard of any book bans, but there are notable restrictions for using the info systems. Using a PC is often limited to an 1 hour. Bulk downloading is prohibited, Tor is blocked, Invidious is blocked, some specific branches are skiddish about attaching a USB drive to printer, some won’t allow a PDF to be opened directly from a USB drive, etc.

Price of printing is getting crazy & out of touch with inflation. I think it was 5¢ per page a year ago. Now it’s 10¢ in some branches and 15¢ in others. Which is ridiculous.. inflation did not triple in the past year.