EN Understanding

IELTS Model Answers

Public Libraries in the Digital Age

Academic

Writing Task 2

EducationSocietyTechnology

Question

Some people believe governments should continue investing in public libraries, while others argue that free online resources have made physical libraries unnecessary. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Model Answer

Public libraries give people free books and a quiet place to study, which still matters in many towns. Some taxpayers say the internet already offers information, so libraries are an extra cost. I understand that online articles and videos are convenient for people who have a good computer and Wi-Fi. However, not every family can pay for devices or fast internet, and libraries still support for students and older readers. In my opinion, governments should keep funding libraries, but they can also update them with computers and training so they stay useful.

Glossary

digital repositories

Online stores of texts, data, or media that users can search and retrieve remotely.

bricks-and-mortar libraries

Physical library buildings, as opposed to purely online collections.

a false economy

A saving that seems cheap at first but creates bigger costs or problems later.

Nevertheless

Introduces a contrasting point while acknowledging what was said before.

equal access

Fair opportunity for everyone to use resources, regardless of income or location.

social infrastructure

Shared institutions and spaces that help communities function and connect.

In my view

A formal way to state your opinion in an essay or discussion.

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