Public design systems have emerged as a vital resource in the design community, reminiscent of the collaborative spirit of early Web 2.0. The author reflects on how these systems create a shared ecosystem where teams can learn from one another, resulting in improved quality and innovation. However, there's a troubling trend toward privatizing these systems, which the author argues will have detrimental effects on the design landscape. Once one team opts to go private, it sets a dangerous precedent, making it easier for others to follow suit. This could lead to a future where public systems are rare, leaving designers without crucial resources. The author points out that while maintaining a public design system can be challenging—due to concerns over proprietary information and increased workload—the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. Public systems push for higher quality outputs, as teams are more conscious of their work being scrutinized. This heightened awareness leads to better documentation and more polished components. Moreover, public systems attract talent by providing potential hires with a clear picture of the work environment and projects they might engage with. The visibility can also improve team morale, as designers feel recognized and appreciated for their contributions. In essence, the article argues for the necessity of public design systems, emphasizing that they enhance the quality of work, foster collaboration, and support recruitment efforts. Retaining these systems is not just about sharing resources; it's about maintaining a vibrant design community that thrives on openness and shared knowledge.