I go to my local library at least weekly.  What a change from the dusty place when I was a kid.  There are bits where people can chat and laugh, kids are encouraged to touch books and people are relaxed about drinks and phones.  As a result, it always seems to be full, particularly of the young and the old. 

We need to keep libraries open, they provide a significant community service.  Even if you are 'hanging around' in the library, it is better than just a street corner or similar, because when you are there, you have the potential for access to knowledge and there is nothing more important than that.

He was always in the library, wheezing coughs decorating the local paper in the morning and car magazines in the afternoon.  The opposite seat stayed empty.