The Future of Libraries

Rainie, L. (Director) (2014, April 10). The Future of Libraries: 7 Questions Librarians Need to Answer. Texas Library's Association Annual Conference. Lecture conducted from , Retrieved June 21st, 2014, from http://www.pewinternet.org/2014/04/10/the-future-of-libraries/

The Future of Libraries     

  This presentation was done by Lee Rainie during the TLA annual conference.  It is one of the most relevant and important topics to discuss these days.  With the emergence of technology almost every aspect of our lives has to be reevaluated and adapted from how we handle our money to the presents we buy for our family and friends.  Libraries are not safe from this emergence and if we want our libraries to continue to thrive and meet the needs of our communities then we must look into the future and be prepared.  
       Rainie's presentation reinforced that a high percentage of people consider libraries to be important to the community and family.  They see libraries as a way to give us all a chance, an even playing field almost.  It is comforting to know that when everything in our society seems so instantaneous the value in libraries is still immense.  One key factor that I found interesting was that libraries cannot stay focused on just being a collection but more on being a creation.  I think back to my public education days and many times I would go to the library and research and then go home to create my actual project.  It would have been great if I could have created the project right there in the library.  This change would add great depth to the function of a library.  A few other changes suggested by Rainie is the need for libraries to coordinate with schools more, begin early literacy programs, have access to more e-books, create comfortable spaces, and designate specific areas for the different services provided. All of these will increase the use and the outlook that libraries are staying current and relevant.
      I loved the ideas that Rainie received when surveying people about what they would like to see in a library.  Two of my favorites are putting in a technology "petting zoo" for patrons to try out the new stuff and to put up kiosks, like redbox, around town where they can "rent" a book without having to go to the library. I am excited to be a part of the library world and to help it transform into something even more wonderful!

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