1st Essay
On Libraries
Oliver Sacks
"On Libraries" is a personal and emotional essay
where Oliver Sacks shares his deep
love for books and libraries.
He talks about how libraries were important places in his life—from his
childhood in London to his
adult years in New
York. For Sacks, libraries were more than just buildings; they
were places of learning,
peace, and imagination. The essay shows how books shaped his
mind and gave him comfort throughout his life.
About Essayist
Oliver
Sacks (1933–2015) London, England, was a neurologist and writer known for blending science,
memoir, and storytelling in his works.. He combined science and personal
stories in his books. He loved exploring how the mind works and what makes us
human. In this essay, he talks about how much he loved books and libraries all
his life.
Setting
The essay takes place in many libraries Sacks
visited—from the small library he used as a child in London to big libraries in
New York. It also happens in his family home, where books were everywhere, and
in public libraries that gave him comfort and peace.
1. Love for Books and Reading
Sacks shows his deep passion for books and how
reading was an important part of his life from a young age.
2. Importance of Libraries
He explains how libraries were safe, peaceful
places where he could explore knowledge and feel at home.
3. Learning and Curiosity
The essay highlights how libraries helped him
grow intellectually and fed his curiosity about the world.
4. Memory and Nostalgia
Sacks shares warm memories of his childhood
and past experiences, showing how libraries stayed close to his heart.
5. Connection with Others Through
Knowledge
He believes libraries bring people together by
giving everyone access to books, ideas, and shared learning.
Understanding the text
a. Where could the author be found
when he was late for lunch or dinner?
Oliver Sacks was often found in a
library when he was late for lunch or dinner. He would become so deeply
absorbed in reading that he completely lost track of time. For him, libraries
were more than quiet places—they were gateways to discovery and imagination.
The lure of knowledge was so strong that meals and routines became secondary.
Immersed in books, he felt both freedom and joy. The silence and solitude of
the library offered him an ideal environment for reflection, study, and
exploration. It was a sanctuary where time stood still and his curiosity could
roam freely.
b. What are his first memories?
Oliver Sacks’ earliest memories
are filled with books. He vividly recalled his childhood home in London, where
shelves lined every room, stuffed with books on every subject. His parents,
both intellectually inclined, encouraged his curiosity and passion for reading.
Even before he could fully understand the content, he flipped through
encyclopedias and atlases, fascinated by the pictures and information. These
books became his first windows into the wider world. The atmosphere of learning
and discovery at home left a deep impression on him, shaping his identity and
sowing the seeds of a lifelong love for knowledge, science, and storytelling.
c. Why did he dislike school?
Oliver Sacks disliked school
because he found it monotonous, overly structured, and disconnected from the
excitement he experienced in books. While school demanded conformity and
memorization, he preferred the freedom to explore ideas at his own pace. He
longed for the spontaneous learning and discovery he found in libraries. At
school, subjects were taught rigidly, without the passion or depth that
intrigued him. The environment often felt dull and uninspiring, especially
compared to the vibrant world of books. For Sacks, real learning meant
following his curiosity—something traditional schooling, with its limitations and
schedules, didn’t allow him to fully embrace.
d. What did he feel about at the
library?
At the library, Oliver Sacks felt
deeply at home. He saw it as a place of limitless possibility and inspiration.
Surrounded by books, he experienced a mix of excitement, peace, and curiosity.
Libraries were his sanctuaries—safe spaces where he could freely explore any
subject that caught his interest. The act of wandering through shelves and
discovering unexpected gems gave him joy. To Sacks, libraries symbolized the
magic of learning and the beauty of intellectual freedom. He believed they
nurtured creativity, reflection, and knowledge. This emotional connection
lasted throughout his life and greatly influenced his passion for science and
writing.
e. Why was he so biased about
sciences especially astronomy and chemistry?
Sacks was especially drawn to
astronomy and chemistry because they sparked his imagination and sense of
wonder from a young age. Astronomy fascinated him with its vastness and
mystery—planets, stars, and galaxies felt like distant realms waiting to be
understood. Chemistry appealed to his love for hands-on experimentation and
transformation, almost like magic in motion. Growing up in a scientifically
inclined family, he had early exposure to science-related books and ideas.
These subjects gave him a tangible way to explore the world’s secrets. The joy
of discovery and the beauty of natural laws made these sciences irresistible to
him.
f. Why did he become so fascinated
by Hook?
Oliver Sacks admired Robert Hooke
because of his insatiable curiosity and wide-ranging contributions to science.
Hooke wasn’t limited to one field—he was an inventor, architect, physicist, and
more. His interdisciplinary genius reflected the kind of intellectual passion
that Sacks found inspiring. Hooke’s detailed observations using the microscope,
especially in his book Micrographia, opened up an unseen world that
fascinated Sacks. Hooke’s approach to science—careful observation,
experimentation, and exploration—mirrored Sacks’ own methods. He admired Hooke
not just for his discoveries, but for his spirit: a relentless pursuit of
understanding and a belief that knowledge could come from every direction.
g. Describe library at the Queen’s
College.
The Queen’s College library, as
described by Sacks, was a magnificent and peaceful place that deeply impressed
him. It featured high ceilings, dark wooden interiors, and vast shelves filled
with books that created an atmosphere of timelessness and scholarly beauty. The
quiet and dignified environment made it ideal for deep thought and reading. For
Sacks, it wasn’t just a functional academic space—it was almost sacred. The
library’s vast collection and serene ambiance offered him the perfect retreat
to explore, reflect, and grow intellectually. This library became one of his
favorite places, a symbol of the lifelong companionship he found in books.
h. Why did the students ignore the
bookshelves in the 1990s?
In the 1990s, students
increasingly turned to digital resources, bypassing traditional bookshelves.
With the rise of the internet and digital databases, research became faster and
more convenient through screens. As a result, many students no longer browsed
physical books for information. Sacks observed this shift with concern, noting
the loss of tactile engagement with books and the joy of accidental discoveries
in the stacks. The shelves, once bustling with curious minds, became quiet and
overlooked. This transformation reflected a broader change in academic
culture—from immersive, book-based exploration to more goal-driven,
efficiency-focused digital research practices.
i. Why was he horrified when he
visited the library a couple of months ago?
Oliver Sacks was horrified during
a recent library visit when he noticed that the shelves once brimming with
books were now mostly empty or neglected. The space, which once symbolized
endless learning and wonder for him, had been overtaken by screens and digital
terminals. This modernization felt to him like a loss of soul—where tactile,
immersive engagement with books had been replaced by impersonal technology. He
mourned the disappearance of serendipitous discovery and the quiet intimacy of
turning pages. The library’s transformation symbolized for him a broader cultural
shift away from deep, reflective learning toward fast, surface-level
information consumption.
Reference to the context
a. The author says, “I was not a
good pupil, but I was a good listener.” Justify it with textual evidences.
Oliver Sacks openly admits that he
wasn’t a good pupil in the conventional academic sense. He struggled with the
structured, repetitive nature of school and often found it uninspiring.
However, he describes himself as a good listener, which becomes evident through
his natural curiosity and eagerness to absorb knowledge outside the classroom.
In On Libraries, he recounts how he listened intently to lectures,
stories, and informal conversations, drawing deep understanding from them. More
importantly, his time spent in libraries was an extension of this listening—he
“listened” to books, absorbing ideas through reading and quiet contemplation.
He was not one to memorize for tests or follow strict instructions, but he was
highly attentive when a subject sparked his interest. This self-guided, engaged
form of learning suited him better than school ever did. Therefore, Sacks'
strength as a "listener" reflects his ability to absorb and retain
knowledge in a deeply personal and meaningful way.
b. A proverb says, “Nothing is
pleasanter than exploring a library.” Does this proverb apply in the essay?
Explain.
The proverb “Nothing is pleasanter
than exploring a library” perfectly captures the spirit of Oliver Sacks’
essay On Libraries. For Sacks, libraries were magical, almost
sacred places where he could wander freely among books and let his curiosity
guide him. He describes the joy of discovering new subjects, the peace of
reading in silence, and the sense of wonder he felt surrounded by knowledge.
Sacks often lost track of time in libraries, entirely absorbed in the process
of learning. He recalls the thrill of finding unexpected treasures on the
shelves—books he wasn’t looking for but that captivated him. The act of
exploration itself, not just reading, gave him deep satisfaction. Unlike rigid
school structures, libraries allowed him the freedom to learn at his own pace
and follow his passions. This experience made exploring a library not only
pleasant for Sacks but essential to his intellectual and emotional development,
making the proverb highly relevant to the essay.
c. Are there any other services
that you would like to see added to the library?
Libraries have always been
centers for learning, but as times change, so should the services they offer.
One addition that would greatly benefit users is access to digital learning
platforms such as language apps, coding tutorials, or online university-level
courses. These tools could help people of all ages engage in self-paced
learning and stay updated with modern skills. Furthermore, libraries could
provide technology zones with computers, tablets, and high-speed internet for
those who may not have access at home.
Another exciting service could be
the creation of “maker spaces”—rooms with equipment for 3D printing, robotics,
or craft projects. These would support hands-on learning and creativity,
especially among younger visitors. Libraries could also offer mental wellness
areas with soft lighting, calming music, and mindfulness resources to help
people relax and unwind. Hosting community workshops, guest lectures, and book
clubs would also increase engagement. By combining learning, technology,
creativity, and wellness, libraries can evolve into true community learning
hubs.
Summary
"On Libraries" by Oliver Sacks is a heartfelt tribute to the extreme role
libraries and books played in his life. Sacks begins by recounting his
childhood in London, where his home overflowed with books, and he found solace
in libraries during the tumultuous years of World War II. He describes how
libraries became places of refuge and wonder, offering him access to countless
worlds beyond his immediate surroundings. His early fascination with books
sparked a lifelong passion for reading and learning, which he nurtured through
frequent visits to public libraries.
As
Sacks grows older, his relationship with libraries deepens, and they become not
just places to borrow books but sanctuaries where he can think, reflect, and
discover new interests. He emphasizes how libraries are more than mere
collections of books; they are vibrant, living institutions that foster
curiosity and intellectual growth. Sacks shares anecdotes about the excitement
of stumbling upon unexpected books and the joy of immersing himself in
unfamiliar subjects. This sense of serendipity and exploration, he argues, is
one of the greatest gifts libraries offer.
In
the final part of the essay, Sacks reflects on the broader significance of
libraries in society. He views them as essential democratic spaces that provide
knowledge and opportunity to all, regardless of background or status. As he
contemplates the future of libraries in the digital age, Sacks remains hopeful,
believing that the enduring human need for stories and knowledge will preserve
the relevance of libraries for generations to come. His essay ultimately serves
as a love letter to these cherished institutions, celebrating their role in
shaping individuals and communities alike.
Reference beyond the text
a. Write an essay on Libraries and its uses
for students.
Libraries and Their Uses for Students
Libraries are very important
places for students because they help with learning, research, and personal
growth. A library has many useful materials like books, magazines, journals,
and digital tools that students can use to do well in school. Students use the
library to find information for homework, projects, and exams. Whether they
need a school textbook or a rare research paper, libraries give them access to
what they need to study deeply. Also, libraries offer quiet spaces where
students can study in peace, away from the noise at home or outside.
Besides keeping books, libraries
help students think more deeply and be more creative. Some libraries have
special collections and rare books that students can’t find anywhere else.
These materials help students go beyond what they learn in class and see
different ideas. Libraries also hold workshops, events, and learning sessions
that help students improve their writing, research, and speaking skills. These
events also give students a chance to meet and learn from other students and
experts, which makes their learning experience even better.
Another great thing about
libraries is the technology they offer. Today, many libraries have computers,
internet, and special software that students need for research. This helps
students find online books, journals, and articles. For those who don’t have a
computer or internet at home, the library becomes a very helpful place to do
their schoolwork. Many libraries even teach students how to find information
online and use digital tools properly, which is very useful in today’s world.
Libraries are also good places for
group learning and social interaction. Students often form study groups in
libraries, where they can talk about school topics and help each other
understand better. With study rooms and group areas, libraries support teamwork
and build a feeling of community. These group activities help students learn
more through sharing and discussion. So, libraries are not just places to study
alone—they also help students grow by working together. That’s why libraries
are such an important part of every student’s school life.
b. Do you have any public
library in your locality? If so, do the people in your community use it? Give a
couple of examples.
Yes, there is a public library in
my area, and many people in the community use it regularly. The library is located
in the center of the town, so it’s easy for everyone—students, parents, and
working people—to reach. It has many useful things like books, computers,
internet, and quiet places to study. The library is a favorite place for
learning, and people go there to borrow books, search online, or join local
programs.
For example, students go to the
library during exam time to study in a quiet place or to use the internet for
schoolwork. It becomes crowded with high school and college students who want a
peaceful space to focus. Also, many people come just to read for fun—there are
books on different topics like stories, history, and health. People enjoy
choosing what they like to read.
The library also has fun and
useful programs. It organizes reading groups, classes, and storytelling for
children. Parents love to bring their kids to these events because it helps
them enjoy books from an early age. These events help people meet, learn, and
have fun together. The library is not only a learning place but also a place
where the community connects, learns, and grows.
In Advance
Libraries are indispensable resources for students, providing an
environment conducive to learning, research, and personal development. A
library offers access to an immense collection of books, journals, magazines,
and digital resources, all of which serve as valuable tools for academic
success. Students rely on libraries to gather information for assignments,
projects, and exams, and to expand their knowledge in various fields of study.
Whether it's a textbook for a course or an obscure research paper, libraries
provide the materials needed to facilitate in-depth learning. Moreover, they
offer quiet spaces for focused study, allowing students to concentrate without
the distractions of home or social settings.
In addition to being a repository of knowledge, libraries are
crucial for fostering critical thinking and creativity. Many libraries provide
access to specialized collections, rare books, and archives that students may
not be able to find elsewhere. This exposure to diverse resources encourages
students to think beyond the classroom material and explore different
perspectives. Additionally, libraries often host events, workshops, and
seminars that encourage intellectual engagement, helping students develop
skills in research, writing, and presentation. These activities provide
opportunities to network with peers and experts, enriching the educational
experience.
Another significant benefit of libraries for students is the
availability of technological resources. In today's digital age, many libraries
are equipped with computers, internet access, and specialized software for
academic purposes. This technology aids students in their research by providing
access to online databases, e-books, and academic journals. For students
without personal access to a computer or the internet, the library becomes an
essential space for conducting research and completing assignments. Many
libraries also offer assistance with digital literacy, teaching students how to
effectively search for academic resources and navigate online platforms.
Furthermore, libraries serve as community centers that promote
collaboration and social interaction. Students often work together in study
groups, discuss academic ideas, and engage in collaborative learning within
library spaces. By providing study rooms and group work areas, libraries
facilitate teamwork and foster a sense of community among students. These
collaborative environments allow students to share ideas, debate topics, and
enhance their understanding of subjects through peer interaction. In this way,
libraries not only support individual learning but also contribute to a
collaborative academic atmosphere, making them an essential part of every
student's educational journey.
b. Do you have any public library
in your locality? If so, do the people in your community use it? Give a couple
of examples.
Yes, there is a public library in my locality, and it serves as an
important resource for people in the community. The library is centrally
located, making it accessible to students, professionals, and families. It
offers a wide range of services, including access to books, computers, and
study spaces. The library has become a hub for learning, providing residents
with the opportunity to borrow books, use the internet for research, and
participate in community events.
People in the community do use the library regularly. For example,
students often visit the library to study for exams or complete their homework.
During exam seasons, the library becomes a popular destination for high school
and college students, who take advantage of the quiet atmosphere to focus on
their studies. Additionally, many people in the community come to the library
to borrow books, not just for academic purposes, but also for recreational
reading, exploring a wide range of genres like fiction, history, and self-help.
The library also hosts community events that encourage people of
all ages to engage with one another. For instance, it organizes reading clubs,
educational workshops, and storytelling sessions for children. These events are
particularly popular with parents, who bring their children to foster a love of
reading from an early age. The library's ability to cater to both educational
and social needs helps it maintain a strong presence in the community, with
people consistently using its resources for personal growth and social
interaction.
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