When I started out on the library tour, I thought I would have to argue for the survival of libraries. But I think that is not generally the case. Libraries are struggling and their budgets are being slashed, but their plight is also forcing many local residents to grasp the idea of community, and to come forward and fight for the libraries in their community. In Osterville, Mass., residents have raised money for a new library, and construction has begun. I gave my talk there in the meeting room of a local church, which the library is using for its community events. Big room, but the library nearly filled it up for me at 2 p.m. on a weekday.

Pretty cool.