You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Students today can easily access information online, so libraries are no longer necessary. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your own knowledge and experience.
Write at least 250 words.

MODEL ANSWER:

There has been a tremendous transformation in the area of knowledge acquisition since the advent of internet. Many online features have made internet the favourite for students and some opine that this is making the role of conventional libraries less significant in accessing information. I too think this is true to a greater extent.

Firstly, it is to be noted that almost every piece of information which is available in a traditional library is now available on the internet. It offers students the privilege of vast collections of e-books, which are of superior quality. Unlike a library, internet offers them the advantage of a quick search. For example, any book can be searched on the net by simply typing its title or its author’s name.

Another advantage internet offers to students is convenience. To be precise, a student can procure any sort of information which he needs anytime irrespective of his geographical location on his computer or even on his smartphone. The service is comparatively cheaper than in a library. Many of the e-books are absolutely free and this attracts many young readers to the internet. Finally the cost of maintaining a library, whether by the public or private sector is generally high, and this makes many to have a negligent attitude towards libraries.

However, one should not forget the purpose of a library. The ambience it gives to a reader or to a student who goes there is unique. At the same time, I believe if there are not any progressive changes made in the setting of libraries; these places will soon become deserted.

To conclude, there is no doubt that libraries are losing its significance among students due to the popularity of internet. A critical assessment makes me believe that there should be a cut down in the number of existing libraries, but I do not favor its total disappearance.