However, when both types of libraries were commonplace, the terms circulating libraries and subscription libraries "were completely interchangeable." It was logical that they were considered to be the same since both libraries circulated books and charged a subscription fee. The libraries differed in their intent. Circulating libraries’ intent was financial gain, and subscription libraries intended to obtain literary and scholarly works to share with others. Circulating libraries were popular in the 18th and 19th centuries and were located in large and small communities. Often, they were operated out of stores that sold other items such as newspapers and books. Sometimes they were in stores that sold items completely unrelated to books. They were often important social establishments, where users would go to see and be seen. In resort towns, they were often quite fashionable, with visitors subscribing for the season. The fees were for long periods of time such ranging from several months to a year. Eventually, the fees changed to daily rates to try to entice customers in some libraries. One difference between circulating libraries and other libraries was that their collection reflected public demand, which led to larger collections of fiction. When circulation of a particular book decreased, it was sold. Another difference was the customers of circulating libraries were often female. These factors contributed to the popularity of circulating libraries. Circulating libraries were the first to serve women and actively seek out their patronage. It was not a coincidence that some of these libraries were located in millinery and stationery stores and midwives' offices. Circulation libraries would also employ single women, widows, and retired women. Early circulating libraries 1725, Allan Ramsay opened the first circulating library in Edinburgh, Scotland. 1728, the first circulating library in England was opened by James Leake. 1745, year of dissolution of a circulating library operated by Samuel Fancourt 1762, the first circulating library in America was opened in Annapolis, Maryland by William Rind. Criticism of circulating libraries and novels The late 18th century was when novels became commonplace. The demand for novels was high but the cost of them made them inaccessible for many. They held wide appeal because they were less complex than more scholarly types of literature. However novels did not have an overwhelmingly popular reception. Some aspects of novels were realistic, which made them appealing and relatable. The elements of novels that made them sensational and alluring were the