When people think about libraries, they imagine a place for books and research, not the fact that it can act as a tech access hub or a community center with events and resource help. With the internet providing the majority of the answers to people’s inquiries, the library’s previous utility in providing information access through encyclopedias or print-research material has declined. Research papers and research are easily accessile online as with search engines like “Google” which bring the information directly to you, versus a research librarian directing you. To get learners who grew up in the age of technology to engage in physical libraries, librarians and libraries have to meet them where they are at, (Stephens, 2010) in addition bridging the digital divide for users not well versed with technology and the internet.
Modern technology allows for easy access to information and connection with others. However at the cost of speed and convenience, users may feel more lonely and disconnected to physical spaces. With the popularity of makerspaces, events, and spaces within libraries, they can offer more physical tools, technology, and community support. Through the variety in programming and spaces, libraries can end up teaching useful and popular skillsets in our modern times. “The Mix”, a teen space in the San Francisco Public Library, features a variety of activities including video games, a makerspace, and various hosted activities within the space. The power of free third spaces (a place outside home and work), like within the library, can be a powerful connection to serving the community and breaking down barriers (O’Brien, 2019). Improv classeses through SFPL
The modern day librarian’s role now involves creating and stewarding technology programs, in addition to being saavy enough users themselves. It requires a change in mindset to dream bigger and to see how to get in touch to share and advocate for modern technology and programs. Much like any private business, libraries have clients to serve and please. Simply computerizing processes without forethought or recognition of what client’s needs are redundant and at times, harmful (Denning, 2015). Libraries providing “digital literacy” workshops can help those in the community with no or limited experience in accessing and using new technology. With my classes as SJSU, I’m learning basic web programming which will be useful to apply and have a knowledge if the job requires light programming work. Being challeged to learn something new and to encourage others to learn new tech can be rewarding.
The future survival and success of libraries will lie in how librarians can approach change and transform it into something beneficial for the community. If libraries become stuck in the vertical and hierarchical levels of the organization, there would not be room for creativity and unconventional thinking (Denning, 2015). Like with how Stephens (2010) describes within a “hyperlinked library” are librarians that are curious, creative, transparent, and flexible. These qualities lend to librarians that can understand how to engage and serve the community. Excising creativity, understanding the communities needs, and staying current on technological trends is how libraries will continue to prove their worth and thrive.
References:
Denning, S. (2015, May 1). Do we need libraries?. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/stevedenning/2015/04/28/do-we-need-libraries/?utm_campaign=ForbesTech&utm_source=TWITTER&utm_medium=social&utm_channel=Technology&linkId=13831539
O’Brien, C. (2019, June 24). How San Francisco’s public libraries are embracing their changing role. https://www.shareable.net/how-san-francisco-public-libraries-are-embracing-their-changing-role/
Stephens, M., & Stephens, M. (2010, March 2). The hyperlinked school library: Engage, explore, celebrate. Tame the Web. https://tametheweb.com/2010/03/02/the-hyperlinked-school-library-engage-explore-celebrate/