Comments on: Will Libraries Go the Way of Video Stores?

By: Jacos

Jacos — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 21:32:53 +0000

Very good site, welcome

http://phentarmine.wordpress.com/

By: Matthew

Matthew — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 14:22:14 +0000

Admittedly, I am annoyed by this reoccuring question: “Will libraries go the way of videostores?” or, phrased another way, “Have libraries outlived their necessity?”. Both of these questions assume that libraries are primarily about books, and not about information & literacy. All of this assumes that all citizens have the same level of easy access to newer technologies, and that class doesn’t separate us as information consumers.

Neither digital information nor newer business models that offer fee-based, library-like services replace the necessity of libraries. As long as librarians hold true to their mission of meeting the informational needs of all citizens as well as preserving our cultural history, there is no technology or business model currently on the table that challenges the long-term necessity of libraries.

By: Monty

Monty — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 19:15:49 +0000

I must admit right off the bat that I do work in a public library, so please take that into consideration. But I encourage the public to voice their opinions to library staff and expect to see the change. If you are a young mother and find it very difficult to get to the library, mention this to the staff the next time you are in, or give us a call. Many libraries throughout the country offer free Homebound Delivery programs to aid those who cannot easily come in to use our services and we love that we can reach out to those in the community who were unable to reach us. Why not suggest a New Mother’s Delivery program! I hope I am not over stepping my bounds by speaking for librarians and saying we will happily listen and do what we can to accomodate you. We consider honoring your suggestions as one of our basic services. And if you still decide to go with a pay-for book delivery services, then hopefully we will see you at free children’s programming and when your kids want free high speed internet access and start asking those pesky reasearch paper questions!

By: Stephanie Cummings

Stephanie Cummings — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 10:41:15 +0000

Having worked in public libraries for a number of years, I too believe that they provide a wide range of services- and by far their most popular and heavily used collections are recreational material. The library’s essential services are not ” research, education, computer learning/training/availability”, but providing information and material that the public need and want. A library is a community asset where all are welcome.

By: Margaret Bremner

Margaret Bremner — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 09:46:41 +0000

As a librarian I believe that libraries are here to ensure that all people have access to entertainment, not just those who can afford it. Librarians do provide services to the public other than those mentioned by doug ross, including their own knowledge base to encourage reluctant readers, favourite authors to introduce to other patrons. Our essential service that was the original intent of public libraries was to provide equal access to information without expense. It is always wise to provide free entertainment that will also introduce patrons to the concept of lifelong learning. We are first and foremost institutions for the provision of the printed word in multiple formats.

By: doug ross

doug ross — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 13:34:11 +0000

Miriam, as CEO of Booksfree I share your compassion for libraries. I would like to offer a bit different perspective.. Libraries are under growing pressure to work within current space and budgets for research, education, computer learning/training/availability. The demand for entertainment products (dvd,audiobook,fiction,etc) is effecting their ability to perform their basic services.Encouraging members to use alternative cost effective services such as Booksfree would still save the consumer substantial $$$$ while freeing up libraries to better perform their essential services. One could reasonably ask if it is wise to use public money (taxpayer) and grants to provide free entertainment rather than services more beneficial to the general public.