How can I eliminate the need for the switch controlling living room receptacles?
The following assumes that only one switch controls the outlets.


Turn the breaker off to the outlets.
Confirm there is no power with an outlet tester.
Remove the switch cover.
Loosen the switch.
Confirm there is no power to the switch using a no-contact tester.
Remove the two wires attached to the switch (should be a combination of black, red or white).
Twist the two wires together and cover with a wire nut.
Remove ground wire (green or bare), if present, and push to back of box.
If there are other wires in the box, ignore them.
Put a blank box cover over the switch box.
Turn the breaker back on.
Throw away switch.


NOTE: Switched outlets are often used in rooms that lack an overhead light or only have a pull chain fixture. This allows someone entering the room to turn on a table or floor lamp so they are not stumbling around in the dark. In fact, switched outlets or fixtures are now mandated under the National Electric Code (which is controlling in most locales in the US): 210.70(A)(1) Habitable Rooms. At least one wall switch–controlled lighting outlet shall be installed in every habitable room and bathroom. 

There are also techniques for splitting a dual outlet so that one half is switched and the other half always live.  However this requires at least three wires running to the outlet box (neutral/hot/switched hot).