Authored by JoCoLibrary's Olivia C.
A lot of people are feeling tired of being “online” 24/7. Social media platforms, algorithms catered to our interests, Artificial Intelligence tools—the internet may make you feel exhausted with brain space taken up and overwhelm setting in. The trend of going analog is a buzzy topic in 2026.
I personally have felt all of the above and because of this, going analog has been on my mind lately.
For example, I recently learned that my car has a CD drive, so I have been checking out CDs and ignoring my Spotify algorithm. Peruse my recommended CD picks.
In the same spirit, I’ve been trying to spend less time on my phone and have taken to checking out books I can browse through easily to scratch the scrolling the itch. This led to the creation of a recent list, Scroll Through a Book Instead.
I love writing Library content about topics I’m into that I think our patrons would also be interested in. So that’s how we got here today. Let’s talk analog!
What is “going analog”?
“Going analog” generally refers to accomplishing tasks or hobbies in a low-tech (or no-tech) way. This could mean writing in a paper planner instead of an online calendar or listening to CDs in your car instead of streaming music.
Analog items are not connected to the internet, therefore they do not have some of the common headaches users complain about like endless ads, algorithms, and content that overstimulates or overwhelms.
Benefits of going analog
- Improve mental health and focus
- Slowing down by using analog tools such as journaling by hand can allow better focus and improved mental health.
- Connect with others in person.
- A lot of analog hobbies can better allow you to meet up with others to enjoy hobbies together.
- Save money
- There are less or even no ads using analog technology and less pressure to spend money.
How can I go analog at the Library?
We’re so glad you asked. 😉 The Library offers more than books, but of course we have to talk about those first!
Browse & Borrow Books
Reading a physical book can help you slow down and unwind without the need to charge a device or connect to the internet. The Library offers thousands of titles available for checkout, even in CD Audio or Large Print formats! If you’re stumped for reading material, check out our Staff Picks and Bestsellers & Awards. You can also browse by topics & genres and view what’s new and on order.
Choose CDs
Music streaming services can get expensive. The Library is always adding new music CDs to the collection. These items check out just like a book! Keep it for 3 weeks and listen at your leisure.
Delight in DVDs
One of the biggest entertainment expenses for folks is video streaming services. DVDs are a great alternative. You can check out up to 30 feature films at a time from the Library! Take a break or say goodbye to that monthly subscription fee.
The Library has TV shows and movies like titles from HBO, live concerts and countless DVDs from classics to new titles.
Make It in the MakerSpace
One of the most well-loved resources offered at Johnson County Library is the MakerSpace located at Central Resource Library.
We’ve got 3D printers. We’ve got sewing machines. We’ve got a laser cutter/engraver. We have so many ways for you to nourish your creativity!
Stop by next time you’re in the branch (unless it’s a Wednesday when the MakerSpace is closed) to see what’s available to you .
Use Library Spaces for Miscellaneous Analog Hobbies
Book Clubs and Library Book Discussions
You can reserve a room to hold your own book club meetup. We even have Book Club Kits in our catalog, where you check out a backpack with multiple copies of the same book!
We also offer staff-led book discussions at many of our Library branches. After registering for a book discussion time, staff will email you to get a copy of the book sent to your preferred Library branch. Get a copy of the book after registering and Meet up with Library staff and other patrons for a one-time discussion of the book and enjoy comradery and connection.
Cozy crafting
Find a favorite spot to knit or crochet and hang out. Our Library branches offer different seating options like sunny spots by a window or cozy nooks in the stacks to enjoy at any time. We also sometimes offer crafting programs, like our upcoming series of Craft and Chats.
Study, journal, plan, hang, read
You are always welcome in our Library spaces, and we have many spaces for you. Visit any (or all!) of our branches to enjoy our work spaces and seating areas. Bring in your coffee and enjoy your favorite analog activities.
It’s also a great time to browse books that don’t require a ton of focus. Or dive into a topic of interest. Without analog hobbies, we may notice our attention span lacking. If you’re wanting a place to start with books or movies, here are a few of my favorite high-interest lists that may fit the bill:
Picture Books for Adults: Literary Art
Frankenstein Deep Dive
Titanic Stans
Theme Park Fiction
Couch Concert 🤘
Quick Flicks: Movies Under 90 Minutes
The Library is always here for you. If going analog is something you’re interested in, the Library is a great space to use. Our staff are here to help with your questions and assist with your needs at any of our 14 branches. We hope to see you soon.
