The future of the library is being questioned. Are libraries really necessary with the availability of the internet and ebooks? Those of us that use the library and work in them know how valuable a service they provide. I found an article in the UK newspaper, Guardian, called, "We still need libraries in the digital age.” Ian Clark, the author of the article, states that in our troubled economic times the library is a valuable tool to bridge the digital divide, the gap between those with and without the internet. Public libraries are necessary not only to provide internet service, but help people learn how to use it.
This reminded me of something that happened this summer, here in Chicago. A FOX TV news reporter, Anna Davlantes, did a story on the Chicago Public Library. Hidden cameras were used to show the Harold Washington Library not being used, no one in the stacks etc. She concluded that with Illinois in such financial troubles, money spent on libraries is wasted. A few days later the commissioner of the Chicago Public Library, Mary Dempsey, wrote an open letter in response to the Fox story. Dempsey outlines the usage of the library including annual circulation of about 10 million items, 3.8 million internet sessions, 50,000 children involved in summer reading programs, and many other impressive statistics. Obviously these services are being used. You can read the entire letter here.
http://www.statelibraryofiowa.org/ld/tell-library-story/plot/foxnews
My personal experience shows increased library usage in these tougher economic times. When someone cannot buy books or a computer they come to the library. When searching for a job, they use the public library’s resources. If they want to do something fun and free with the kids the library has that too. If they want to fix the car the library has a database to help them out, and it’s because they have a library card. Libraries in general do a lot with the funding that they get and it is far from being wasted. Many people do need and use the libraries.
Anna Davlantes report-
http://www.myfoxchicago.com/dpp/news/special_report/library-taxes-closed-20100628
I agree that we will always need libraries. There will always be people who don't want to or can't afford to buy their own books regardless if they are printed or digital. Libraries are a treasure trove of information, especially in this economy, with people using the computers for job information (resume writing to job openings)to do it yourself books for those wanting to repair things themselves instead of paying someone to do it. It is the place where some children are first introduced to reading during story time. I don't think it will ever happen but it would be a shame if there were no more libraries.
ReplyDelete