I really liked this illustrated version. Otherwise, this is just a variation on Asimov's Foundation. In the far, far future, Earth is a giant galactic library repository. On two occasions, the government arrives to shut it down - but the library Code is 'always cooperate with the government'. How to avoid being shut down by ignorant despots while obeying them? The librarians will find a way! This is two short novellas that have the same setting. The ending to the second is strangely convenient and relies on accounting and super-insta-preordained love. ( )

The first non-Dune book of Frank's that i ever read.   And what did i think?

It ain't Dune, that's for sure.   But, then, what is?

But it could have been better written.   It just all seems rushed to fit into a 100page novella kind of thing when it could have been written really well as a full length trilogy.

The Earth has become humanity's library, the place where all the knowledge of human history is kept for anyone in the galaxy wishing to access it, it's like a galactic wide Wikipedia and then some.

And all Frank could think to do is to write a novella sized rushed thing out about it?   Disappointing: not because it's bad, but because it could have been so much more. ( )

2-1/2 really. Interesting idea which started out as a short story in 'Astounding Science Fiction' in 1954 (and probably should have stayed there!).

Earth is a hollowed out shell of itself, having been stripped of just about everything to power ships to get men out into the universe. It's now a huge Library, with archives saved from everywhere the Collectors or "Pack Rats" can get to for information. In return, there is a constant stream of information going out into the known universe, most of which is seen as useless nonsense (hmmm. Sounds just like TV) which can, however, cause trouble.

I like the book up until the last several pages when a character who never expressed interest in a girl suddenly falls in love with one. Not that I have a problem with love at first sight, it's just that this is ridiculously fast. 'Course we're talking about what amounts to a novela.

And the editing (and possible syntax?) errors! The biggest one also made me laugh. Tell me, what image do you get when you read this?

"The Admiral and guards moved to interfere, but froze as weapons appeared in the heads of the Dornbakers around the walls." ( )

The book is actually two stories with the same setting and similar plots. Earth has become a giant library. The people who work/live there have code, first among them to comply with whatever government is in power in the galaxy, even if it seems that doing so will lead to the destruction of the library. Nice short read. Destination: Void would have been better if it was this length. ( )

Interesting story well told ( )