"A public library is a library that is accessible by the general public and is usually funded from public sources, such as taxes. It is operated ...
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by librarians and library paraprofessionals, who are also civil servants.
There are five fundamental characteristics shared by public libraries: they are generally supported by taxes (usually local, though any level of government can and may contribute); they are governed by a board to serve the public interest; they are open to all, and every community member can access the collection; they are entirely voluntary in that no one is ever forced to use the services provided; and they provide basic services without charge." - (en.wikipedia.org 30.11.2019)