After completing my first semester of Library School. I have reevaluated my assumptions about libraries in general. My original assumptions were this:
-Libraries are not going anywhere.
-Libraries are more than just a brick and mortar building
-Libraries are a vibrant community center.
After doing some reading on libraries in America today (Libraries are Dying? Think Again), I feel like I can be reassured that they will still be around in my life time. They, however, may not be the way they are today. But, they will still be needed by the local communities, as the articles states, they are still “staples” of communities. From a large, well-funded urban library to a small, struggling rural library that can barely afford to keep its doors open, each is important to its community. They may be forced to rethink their roles and work with less money, but they will be around.
Libraries are also more than just brick and mortar buildings, which also ties in with it becoming a vibrant community center. In the Guardian article, How US libraries are becoming community problem solvers, the library is described as “a grocery store that has become a kitchen.” In other words, we need to not just provide the resources, but show people how to use them. This pertains to Maker Spaces, human resources and employment help. Librarians not only do this within the library, but also bring their services out to career fairs, colleges and other places where they can reach potential patrons.
So, ultimately, I still have a really good vibe when it comes to the future of libraries. Communities need them, not only as repositories for our pasts, but as guides for our future selves and communities.
No comments:
Post a Comment