Why does the word library have a long vowel sound?

The word "library" doesn't have a long vowel sound. It has a short "i" sound, similar to the word "bit" or "trip."

Here's why:

* The "i" is followed by a consonant ("br"): In general, when a vowel is followed by a consonant, it tends to have a short sound.

* The "y" acts as a consonant in this case: The "y" at the end of the word "library" functions as a consonant, not a vowel.

So, the word "library" has a short "i" sound because of the vowel-consonant pattern and the consonant function of the "y."