I vividly remember signing up for my first library card as a child. Suddenly, I could check out my own Garfield comic books. I felt more responsible for the books I borrowed, resolving to keep them ...

Six days a week, public libraries offer air-conditioned spaces to study, work, surf the internet, or simply catch up with a friend — as long as it’s done in hushed tones. Then there’s the plethora of ...