When Libraries Go Bad

I'm disgusted. Truly, I'm disgusted with how the Roseville Library is squandering its funds. Rather then buying books, the Roseville library has decided to get into the video rental business. Maybe this would be a good time to mention that Blockbuster, Hollywood Video, and dozens of independent rental outlets are gasping for survival. The rental business isn't as lucrative as it once was. I won't speculate as to why, that's not where I want to focus this lil' rant. So, if the rental business model seems troubled, would you enter the rental business? Hell no, but you and I have more sense then the Roseville library. The Roseville library has begun renting movies, two nights for a dollar! What a price point! What genius! Perhaps, the library will succeed where businesses have failed. I mean, wouldn't you have faith in an organization that spends tax dollars rather then their own money? I would!

Better yet, I bet they offer a lot fare that isn't offered anywhere else. They'll encourage the viewing of classics, foreign films, and enthusiastically promote those small indie films. Libraries are places of learning, where you seek education, what a wonderful place for cinematic gems.

So, let's peruse the Roseville library DVD selections, shall we? Here is a sampling of what I found:


Air Bud
Gothika
Spy Kids 3-D: Game Over
Air Bud
Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines
Kill Bill (Vol. 1 and 2)
8MM
Scooby Doo (1 & 2)
Saw
The Grudge
Catwoman
Old School
Sin City
Constantine
XXX
The Adventures of Shark Boy and Lava Girl
The Amityville Horror

Hmmm....can you understand my shock and disgust? It's bad enough the library is entering into a profitless business, but they're also supporting crap. A commendable library might pack the shelves with movies that'll enlighten, and inspire. How does XXX inspire? Granted, Catwoman enlightens the viewer as to what comprises a horrible movie, but come on Roseville, you can do better. Our tax dollars need to be used more effectively. Use the money to improve the community.