[BULK] Re: [Web4lib] Re: Future of libraries

[Kirk Spencer]

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I propose that a library is akin to the elephant in the fable.

Back in library school, (mumble) years ago, I got taught a library
serves four general services: information resource; education resource;
entertainment resource; and social resource.  When we narrow in on any
single format or principle, we sacrifice the rest.

I've noticed around here, for example, that as we've increased our
online access, it hasn't hurt our circulation of books.  Increasing
videos and audiobooks and music have not made folk less likely to check
out books or use the computers for internet browsing (or resume writing,
or online classes, or...)  When we complain that the "tech savvy" don't
use our library, are we thinking we're losing the patrons we have, or
lamenting there's a segment we are not serving?  I ask, as I've gained
the impression that it's a bit of both, with emphasis depending upon who
is asking.

For what it's worth I've a suggestion as to what we can provide to these
people who are very comfortable with searching the internet, who are not
inclined to wait for or merely borrow the newest books or music in which
they're interested...  I propose that one of the resources a library
should provide is "gateway".

That is, a library should use its purchasing power to obtain access to
databases and other online assets so as to make them available to
patrons.  If possible, the patrons should be able to access not only
from within the library but from their home computers - though I
recognize the difficulties there.  The principle is much the same as why
we purchase OEDs and (in most libraries) Very Recent editions of
encyclopedias.  It's why we pay for several journals and investment guides.

We have to avoid going overboard, of course.  Most of us have far fewer
dollars available than opportunities to spend them.  And we cannot so
dedicate ourselves to information and entertainment for the high-tech
segment that we forget and abandon the people who are otherwise.

The details - over which I'm seeing so much dispute - are dependent upon
the library at hand.  My community is not a metropolis.  It is not a
college or a hospital.  It is MY community that I serve.  And while I
can advise what works for me, it is idiotic in the extreme to insist the
metropolis or college or hospital - or even a similar library in another
state - be exactly as mine.

Kirk Spencer
Librarian
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