Electronic libraries

[Jerry Kuntz]

Jill Hamrin Postma wrote:
[snip]
> 2. What were your arguments against? (you know, the arguments "they"
>    heard)
> 
> 3. Got any references on stories on this subject?  Success, failure, or
>    you've got to be kidding stories?
> 
> 4. Is this an "us" (the librarians) and "them" (the check writers)
>    battle?
> 
> 5. Does the viewpoint depend on the type of library?  The background of
>    the check writers? How much "they" LISTEN to "us"?

>From the viewpoint of the public library, some of the arguments against:
a) A large percentage of public library use/circulation involves linear,
narrative literature (fiction; biography; etc) where paper still offers
the advantages of being portable, tactile-friendly, and cheap.
b) Public libraries also are study centers; community meeting places,
conduct live programming; have full-length AV collections, etc., none of
which can be replaced electronically at this point.
c) In terms of space planning, MORE overall room may actually be needed
if you assume greater demand for workstations versus less shelf space
for hardcopy.

			Jerry Kuntz
			Ramapo Catskill Library System
			jkuntz at rcls.org