Who says algebra is not important? I had a certain amount left on a card and wanted to find out how much that would be if tax was included in the amount spent. Thus, we set up a formula:
x+x(sales tax) = amount
Thus, we divide the amount by 1.08875 (8 7/8%) to find out how much we have to spend if the item purchased has sales tax. Algebra has two basic functions -- it teaches us how to think/reason and provides a specific ability to determine certain amounts. Determining a certain unknown with the information provided is basic human reasoning. It does sound a bit scary, especially if phrased in a certain way (use of "x" and words like "integer" does that), which might explain some things in fields like politics and social science overall.
Anyway, note the complicated sales tax, which includes a NYC addition (3/8% of which is transportation related). What is with that 1/8%? Just make it 9% ... is the penny per eight dollars going to kill anyone? It is hard to keep up with these fractions, and I did not know it went up earlier in the year. Likewise, it's hard to keep up with what exactly is taxed. Consider Dunkin Donuts -- my coffee was taxed but not my muffin. This is logical in that the muffin is food but certain prepared foods in grocery stores are taxed as is candy. A look at a supermarket receipt -- not always a good thing these days -- can be rather interesting. Well, somewhat so.
OTOH, library hours have expanded significantly in recent years. From five day service in many places to six to six with expanded hours with a few more Sundays. A few more branches, including one near me also were opened in the last few years. The local papers should have done more to discuss this major advancement of local services. In fact, a flyer or pamphlet from the library itself to compare and contrast (especially given all their efforts to promote write-in campaigns to promote and retain a six day week) would have been helpful. Sometimes, there are successes and more should be done to inform us of them.
The alternative is that the status quo is seen as a given, as if things always were like this or it was just the natural state of affairs. Like in health care ...