As a librarian, reading this surreal and absurd exploration of the "modern" library was definitely an experience. From the point of view of a reader, an angry young book that demands to be read, and a librarian, we see the shifting climate of the library from valued source of information and literary respite to an outmoded relic in a now digital age.  And there's the main issue I have with the story.

Seeing as the author is also a librarian, I understand the concerns of the library changing roles over the years. The book laments the use of the library as a working space, where visitors come only to latch on to the Wifi, sip their warm drinks of choice, and hardly pay the collection half a glance. Naturally this take is given from the perspective of the neglected book, but yet there's such a feeling on contempt that feels a little too personal. Many librarians are fearful of what the future of the institution brings, especially when the public is ever more demanding of services the library cannot hope to fulfill. On the other hand, they know that to become "book depositories" without facilities to offer, without programs to foster learning and community, without the potential for continuous learning and growth, is to die a slow death. Even in library world, it's adapt or survive. (Though I have to say, the line about the only interaction librarians have with certain customers being asked where the bathroom is is definitely relatable.)

The fear of the digital book and what it means for the printed word is also a fear, and yet, in my experience, it has been an asset to our community members that cannot travel to our library easily. And still, no matter the format, people are READING. Sure, it may not seem as intimate, but they're still interacting with a story, still connecting to the material. Surely the audiobook did not wipe the physical book off the face of the earth, so why should the ebook? 

A library is its community. It reflects its needs, desires, aspirations, and goals. That's why each one is different. The fears of the future are valid, it's always up in the air what our positions will look like even five years from now, but people will always need information. 

Sorry if this review turned more into a rant. I think it's an interesting perspective. Not one I really agree with, but still worthy of note. It's a little disjointed at times, especially when transitioning to a different perspective, but absurdist fiction doesn't really flow in the way of narrative convention. 

Give it a read if you're into books about books.