Question 121·Easy·Cross-Text Connections
Text 1
Our city’s new library branch is packed every afternoon. Teenagers edit videos in the media lab, job seekers line up at the computer bank, and a volunteer hosts a résumé clinic in a small meeting room. The shelves still matter, but it’s the technology and programs that draw people through the doors.
Text 2
As a parent and teacher, I rely on the library for more than books. My students attend free language classes and homework help sessions, and on weekends the auditorium fills for author talks and civic forums. The library’s role has grown into that of a community hub.
Based on the texts, both authors would most likely agree with which statement?
For cross-text connection questions, first note each author’s main point about the topic. Then identify the idea they share before checking the answer choices. Eliminate choices that are too extreme, apply to only one text, or contradict specific lines (for example, “The shelves still matter”). The correct choice will be a broad statement supported by both texts.
Hints
Look at what people are doing in Text 1
In Text 1, list the different activities happening in the library. How many of them involve something other than checking out books?
Focus on key phrases in Text 2
In Text 2, pay attention to the phrases “for more than books” and “grown into that of a community hub.” What do these phrases suggest about how the author views the library’s role?
Compare which groups and activities are mentioned
Think about who uses the library in both texts (age groups, roles) and what they are doing there. Do the descriptions focus on one group or one kind of event, or on many?
Test each answer against both texts
For each choice, ask: Does this match both Text 1 and Text 2, or only one of them? Eliminate any choice that conflicts with something either author clearly says.
Step-by-step Explanation
Understand Text 1’s main point about the library
In Text 1, the author describes a new library branch where teenagers edit videos, job seekers use computers, and a volunteer runs a résumé clinic. The author notes, “The shelves still matter, but it’s the technology and programs that draw people through the doors,” showing the library provides many services beyond book lending.
Understand Text 2’s main point about the library
In Text 2, the author says they rely on the library “for more than books,” listing language classes, homework help, author talks, and civic forums. The author concludes that the library has grown into a “community hub,” emphasizing a broader community role.
Find the shared idea between the two texts
Both authors present the library as a place that supports many community needs—technology access, educational help, job-related support, and public events—rather than only a place to borrow books.
Match the shared idea to the best answer choice
The choice that matches both texts is: “Modern public libraries act as community centers, offering technology, classes, and events in addition to lending books.”