Comments on: Future Libraries: Once a Refuge, Now They Mean Business

By: BaseKit

BaseKit — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 09:50:26 +0000

Really interesting article. The nice thing about libraries is that they are ever evolving and I really do hope they’re here to stay.

By: Kent Barnard

Kent Barnard — Tue, 05 May 2009 19:21:13 +0000

Interestingly, the downfall of libraries and books has been foretold since books replaced scrolls. Each new technology to come along has meant the end of the library. Instead, the libraries and librarians have responded by embracing technology (maybe too quickly in some cases), and training patrons in it’s use.

I am not just an MLIS student and future librarian, I work in a “big chain” bookstore, and while I can attest to the decline of falling sales among cds and dvds, books still hold their own. Those who buy the Sony Reader or Kindle tell me they do so because they have a need for portability.

I find them annoying to read, slower than I, and none of the sensual gratification one gets from a book – touch, feel, smell, there is nothing like a book!

At the same time, we must, as librarians provide internet access, computer training, gaming, audiobooks, and access to downloading.

It is an exciting time to enter the field. Just think if the government had pumped 800 billion dollars into public libraries!

I hope you will come to the ALA conference in Chicago!

By: Peyton Walters

Peyton Walters — Fri, 01 May 2009 16:20:26 +0000

Your articles about the future of libraries and future libraries are inspiring, knowledgeable and a bit frightning. The Literacy Advisory Council of Kurth Memorial Library in Lufkin, Texas is using your papers as a basis for future planning. THANK YOU!

By: Nik Nikkel

Nik Nikkel — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 19:23:18 +0000

As Dixie Malone, the community relationship person at the Denver library says,”My job is to give away a $160,000,000 resourch.

Good article.

Please note that the Denver library is already providing downloads to phones and ipods, CD versions of books, system wide reserve and delivery, one to one assistance in business reseach. And it is still fun to just go there and hang out!

As far as the bullies go, to sink a misconception, library patrons come in all sizes shapes and backgrounds. I often run into fellow martial arts practitioners at the library.
Regards,

Nik