Adventures in the Linkbrary

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Hyperlinked Communities: Exploring Possibilities

To pull a thought from an earlier post, if it is true that libraries are everchanging entities, it must also be true that the wants and needs of the people that use them are constantly evolving. The hyperlinked communities module made me reflect on this thought and look back at the changes that I have witnessed in public libraries over the last few years. During the peak of the pandemic, we were considering ways in which we could adapt to the needs of our community. The library I worked at, along with many others, shifted priorities to providing more virtual services and programs, diverting funding to provide greater accessibility to eBooks and audiobooks, and we became a center for handing out vital resources such as free COVID tests, and more recently, free baby formula. As time moved on and priorities shifted once again, we pivoted to re-establish in-person services and programs relevant to changing community needs. 

While we now have more available online resources to help fill in service gaps for those who are unable to attend in-person library programs, I do still wonder if we are reaching as many people as we could be. Stephens’ 2019 question of “What would make their lives easier?” (p. 80) when thinking about library patrons really resonates with me at this point in time, particularly as I have been thinking hard about how I can make a difference at the library I currently work for, and wherever I may end up later.

Stephens (2019) also mentioned that digital literacy will always be a necessity in terms of program offerings at libraries. Many of the folks in my community struggle with computer literacy, and so this is a service we focus on. We all depend on having an understanding of digital devices and platforms for daily life, and in finding and keeping employment. While digital literacy will remain a fundamental service in the teaching aspect of libraries for the foreseeable future, the hyperlinked communities module made me consider that we also have to think about what we can do for other patrons who may be looking for more of a new and explorative experience from libraries. 

An article by Warner (2024) stood out to me in the hyperlinked communities module. The author discussed 24/7 book kiosks and book lockers in detail. I honestly had never heard of the library kiosks prior to this course, although I am familiar with paid versions that exist for renting movies. My state does not have any of these kiosks, but I found one about 45 minutes away from me in Maryland that is located at a public park. I imagine it is a great location to draw in families and others who are enjoying some time outdoors. The kiosk is stocked by staff at the Queen Anne’s County Library, and is filled with books, movies, games, and more. The kiosk also has a screen where libraries can advertise their programs and online services that users may not otherwise know about, and in turn, this could help improve library program attendance or use of online services. Numbers always assist in budget validation, too! 

I really like the idea of having these kiosks added to other public areas that have high foot traffic, such as malls, grocery stores, or public transportation stations/stops. They may be a bit pricey, but I think that if the kiosks fit within a given budget, the outreach with local businesses and centers for connection, along with the ability to reach community members whose schedules or busy lives may not align with their local library’s business hours, would be really beneficial for all involved! Having this option available for patrons would certainly help make their lives easier, and would make people reconsider preconceived notions they may have about libraries being outdated or irrelevant in the interconnected digital world of today.

Other strategies and services that I think would help strengthen the emotional and social impact of the library as a foundational community service include creating a Library of Things, setting up Little Free Libraries in the community, meeting people where they are with Bookmobiles, and facilitating general outreach and program collaboration with other community institutions that provide interactive, informative, and innovative services. As Lauersen (2025) wrote, “The ability to fantasize, dream, and imagine is a crucial driving force throughout our lives.” Wonder and curiosity are what propel us through life, and libraries provide services that help us develop our ability to dream of endless possibilities. The connections people build through library services are the fuel that keeps communities growing and thriving in both times of calm, and in more turbulent times, such as the ones we are living through today.

Lauersen, C. (2025, February 5). The necessary nearness – an ode to bookmobiles. The Library Lab. https://christianlauersen.net/2025/02/05/the-necessary-nearness-and-ode-to-bookmobiles/ 

Queen Anne’s County Library. (2024, November 25). 📣 Exciting New Additions at the Kiosk! Make time this week to visit the Library on Your Schedule Kiosk at Crumpton Park. Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/story.php/?story_fbid=1002509138581825&id=100064682439547&_rdr 

Stephens, M. (2019). Wholehearted librarianship: Finding hope, inspiration, and balance. American Library Association.

Warner, L. (2024, January 17). Revolutionizing public libraries: Three ways that alternative service delivery strategies can meet the challenges of a booming population. Medium. https://medium.com/@lauracwarner/revolutionizing-public-libraries-ff7fed3d12c5