The New Library?
For the last few days, social networking sites have been abuzz with talk of digital libraries, and libraries without books. It started with an article posted by CNN, “The Future of Libraries, With or Without Books” which discussed the evolution of libraries from buildings that housed books, to centers of information, providing a community service. The author noted, with amazement, that the library is no longer the library of old, and neither is the librarian. This was not news to librarians. The fact is, our jobs are constantly evolving to provide the best information in any form, and to instruct patrons on the most effective and inefficient use of that information. If that means a larger digital collection, so be it. Of course, access to materials and information can’t be impeded. That’s why the Boston Globe article that followed, “A Library Without the Books” focusing on Cushing Academy’s new library without books, was so shocking. One of the major functions of a library is to provide free access to all materials. Cushing’s decision to exclude a major form of information seems problematic. Is every piece of information necessary available in digital form? And if so, are tools to view this information available to every student? Is home access free and available to all, regardless of economic status? Any barrier to access to information would be contrary to all that libraries and librarians stand for. While a totally digitized collection seems progressive and forward-thinking, if it impedes access or learning in any way, it is taking a step backwards — even with a coffee bar.
