In this reflection on the hyperlinked environment, I want to build on what I wrote in my previous blog in how people access the library in terms of transportation. I found that in terms of library accessibility, the closest library to most US citizens is about 2 miles away. In several regions in the US this might mean several miles and on top of that, lack of transportation or bus service. As more and more folks in the US might get priced out of living in cities, they might find that their local library is several miles away. Does this discourage people from using the library?
I found that in one of the articles on Australia’s libraries, they shifted their service during Covid-19 to still reach patrons. In addition to online programs and services, they also delivered physical books to citizens. The libraries worked with Australia Post to mail boxes of books to patrons during the lockdown. “Eastern Regional Library’s approach was a significant shift from the traditional ‘supermarket-style’ self-serve model to a personally curated selection. Members could request a box of books to be sent to their home – based on a combination of loan history data, and suggestions of what they like to read.” The boxes contained a personally tailored set of ten books and about 1,000 boxes a week were mailed. This sounds like a great way to reach those who are not able to make it to the library, however, what another article (also based in Australia) mentions how the library itself is valuable to patrons.
Another article noted how the space of the library itself is beneficial for mental health. Accessing a space where someone could feel less isolated and create social connections is vital, especially if they are living alone. Since the environment of a library feels like a safe and welcoming space, many people rely on that space for their health and wellbeing. So, although through the use of bookmobiles and mailing services people can still access information and books, people still need the physical space of the library for a multitude of things. When we look at the library through the lens of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, many of these needs from cognitive to aesthetic to belonging could be found in the library. So while we need programs and services for those who are unable to reach the library by transport, those people might be the most in need of a space such as the library.
Aesthetic needs can also be found in the library and should be designed with this in mind.
Hi Tara – really interesting post! I live in LA and find that accessibility (in terms of ease of transportation) is a major barrier for many folks to access areas outside their direct environment. This is true even for me, and I’m in a privileged position of having access to a car and funds for current gas prices. I wonder how technology will impact how libraries can reach folks with accessibility concerns but also keep physical spaces to provide in-person community.
Hi Tara,
I really liked the idea of personally tailored book boxes that Australia’s libraries mailed out during the pandemic. It seems like something that can definitely be transferred over for rural areas or even to accommodate those who may be disabled or unable to travel to the library. My local library system, the Los Angeles County Library, offers “Books by Mail” as a free service to “homebound, persons in convalescent homes, and rural residents in the LA County Library service area.” The books that are checked out via Books by Mail must be returned in one month and return mailing label and shipping bag are provided. You can learn more about the program here: https://lacountylibrary.org/books-by-mail/
@mistara I appreciated this post and the ideas you pulled out of the readings as well as your connection to Maslov. So good to think about.