GRE General TestAnalytical WritingMedium
A city council is considering a proposal to build a new public library. Proponents argue that a new library will improve literacy rates and provide a vital community hub. Opponents argue that with increasing digital access to information, physical libraries are becoming obsolete, and funding should instead be allocated to digital literacy programs. Which of the following, if true, would most strengthen the opponents' argument that physical libraries are becoming obsolete?
- AA recent survey shows that a majority of city residents prefer reading digital books over physical ones.
- BStudies indicate that communities with robust digital literacy programs show higher rates of economic mobility.
- CMany public libraries across the country have successfully transitioned to offering primarily digital resources, with reduced physical collections.
- DThe city's current library system is outdated and requires significant renovations to meet modern standards.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Many public libraries across the country have successfully transitioned to offering primarily digital resources, with reduced physical collections.
The opponents argue physical libraries are becoming obsolete. If many libraries are successfully shifting to primarily digital resources with reduced physical collections, it provides strong evidence that the physical format is indeed becoming less central, thus strengthening the obsolescence claim.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This supports the idea that digital reading is preferred, which contributes to obsolescence, but option D provides stronger evidence of actual library shifts.
- B. This strengthens the opponents' suggestion for digital literacy programs but doesn't directly support the obsolescence of physical libraries.
- D. This strengthens the argument against *this specific* library project, but not the general argument that physical libraries are obsolete.
Supporting a Trend Claim
To support a claim about an ongoing trend (e.g., 'becoming obsolete'), provide evidence of widespread changes or developments consistent with that trend.
- Identify the specific trend being asserted.
- Look for examples, data, or reports that show the trend in action.
- Comparative or historical data can be strong evidence for trends.
Memory trick: Spotting the direction of change in the current climate.