By: Leslie Perez
As we enter 2026, many have set New Year’s resolutions. An emerging trend, seen not only among Gen Z but across many generations, is to put their phones down more. The digital age continuously consumes us in our daily lives. The term “brain rot” has been a trendy phrase for consuming low-quality online content, which in turn leads to a poor attention span. However, there is hope that many digital users are aware of the consequences of spending too much time on their phones, and this year is being claimed as a comeback for analog media.
What is analog media? Analog media is physical media, such as books, DVDs, vinyl records, printed photos, CDs, and magazines. The movement also encourages participants to take on hobbies such as crocheting, knitting, sewing, and anything that gets you outside.
Our collection features a wide variety of movies on DVD and tens of thousands of books, including world language titles. If we don’t have the book you’re looking for, we are part of a consortium and work in partnership with other libraries to get you the book you need. If you’re unsure where to begin, let us help you create a personalized reading list.
Here at Palatine Library, we are all for this comeback of analog media and the theme of learning something new at the Library. You can pursue this New Year’s resolution of putting down your phone more here at the Library. However, don't rush to the hobby store just yet--avoid falling into the traps of consumerism and see what the Library has to offer. Be more sustainable by checking out our Library of Things and using The Workshop to see if your hobby is for you after all. The Library of Things currently has a sewing machine, telescope, ukulele, binoculars, karaoke machine, Cricut Joy, knitting machine, violin, projector, embroidery machine, and much more! The Workshop is located on the first floor of the Main Library. It’s a place to consider if you need guidance using or learning any equipment. Available equipment includes a sewing machine, Cricut, laser engraver, sublimation machine, large format printer, and more. You can request a one-on-one appointment to get help with Workshop equipment, or feel free to go to any workshop-hosted program or club.
So before you scroll to the next post, consider this your sign to try something new and lower your screen time. Your next hobby might be waiting for you on our shelves or in The Workshop.
