Libraries in the Digital Age

In a world where we have information literally at our fingertips, what good are libraries now, especially since they seem so outdated compared to what Google or Siri can tell us? We have become a society where we will type a question on the internet and take the first website that pops up, which usually tends to be Wikipedia. Sure websites like this are great for providing a quick overview of information, but we do not want to rely on these sources for gathering all of our information needs. Instead, we should continue to look to libraries, because they care about the reliability of sources and know how to utilize their collection to provide their users with the best resources available.

I think many people still believe in the stereotypical library where there is simply a collection of books and if you utter a sound you will be shushed by a librarian. Libraries have significantly changed, however; they have become more like social hubs. Their collection does not only consist of books either. They are embracing the digital age by providing their users with excellent databases as well as a growing collection of eResources including eBooks and eAudiobooks.

Also, many libraries across the country are taking technological advancements to a whole new level by providing their users with Makerspaces filled with a variety of different equipment including 3D printers, software for music and personalized book making, and more. Check out the Edmonton Public Library Makerspace and see all that they offer:

Dame Lynne J. Brindley, Chief Executive of the British Library highlights six different issues she believes that libraries really need to pay attention to ensure their relevance in this ever increasing technological world. The issues mentioned include the provision of e-Science and e-Research in databases beyond physical documents, improving Web 2.0 services, providing rich digital content of special collections, making sure children grow up with skills in information literacy, ensuring digital preservation and long-term access to materials, and adapting the library’s physical space to better meet user needs. These challenges will not be easy for libraries to overcome, but they are not impossible either.