The future for information professionals
Hussain, A. (2020). Cutting Edge: Technology’s Impact on Library Services. In J. Jesubright, & P. Saravanan (Eds.), Innovations in the Designing and Marketing of Information Services (pp. 16-27). IGI Global. https://doi-org.ezproxy.csu.edu.au/10.4018/978-1-7998-1482-5.ch002
Technology has impacted all aspects of life and has altered how libraries serve the community. Public libraries have always existed to provide access to information and resources to keep members of the community well informed. Hussain’s (2020) article explains how this fundamental mission has not changed, however, the types of information and how it is disseminated are constantly evolving. Hussain (2020) discusses how libraries are still essential assets to the community but must continue to evolve to meet changing user needs so that relevance is maintained. Public libraries have already been successfully achieving this through the provision of services and resources such as robotics, 3D printers, e-resources, STEAM activities, and tech help sessions. These services and resources ensure all members of the community can access free educational opportunities to gain the skills needed to remain active participants in society. However, within a constantly evolving society, libraries must continue to adapt to changing user needs.
Public libraries have already long moved away from the simple purpose of providing access to physical books. Public libraries have transformed into community hubs, and advances in technology have contributed to this. Palmer (2022) suggests that public libraries of the future will house fewer books which will provide more physical space where people can come together to collaborate and innovate. Through these spaces, libraries can facilitate the sharing of knowledge by creating opportunities for people to make new connections and foster communication. Patrons are seeking spaces where they can meet, socialise, collaborate, study, and create. This means that libraries not only need more physical area but also spaces that can accommodate different purposes. Libraries are already providing a variety of spaces such as quiet study rooms, maker spaces, sensory areas for children, and meeting rooms. By creating these innovative spaces, libraries can engage with patrons in new and exciting ways.
Innovative technology presents innovative ways to engage with patrons but can also present some challenges. Hussain (2020) identifies several issues including initial purchase costs and the ongoing maintenance and upgrade costs. Additionally, library staff must possess the ability to adapt quickly and constantly learn new technological skills (Md Yatim et al., 2019). However, although challenging, the future of public libraries is full of exciting opportunities. Public libraries are constantly diversifying services, and technology enables this to expand beyond the physical spaces by providing online resources, learning experiences, and reaching new audiences through social media (Arup University, 2015). I think that the future of public libraries will see constant change, however, technology can be used as a positive asset to ensure relevance is maintained and the growing needs of our communities met.
References
Altmann, G. (n.d.) Earth network blockchain [Image]. Pixabay. https://pixabay.com/illustrations/earth-network-blockchain-globe-3537401/
Arup University. (2015). Future libraries: workshops summary and emerging insights. https://www.arup.com/perspectives/publications/research/section/future-libraries
Hussain, A. (2020). Cutting Edge: Technology’s Impact on Library Services. In J. Jesubright, & P. Saravanan (Eds.), Innovations in the Designing and Marketing of Information Services (pp. 16-27). IGI Global. https://doi-org.ezproxy.csu.edu.au/10.4018/978-1-7998-1482-5.ch002
Johnson, G. (n.d.). Social media [Image]. Pixabay. https://pixabay.com/vectors/social-media-connections-networking-3846597/
Md Yatim, N., Nasharudin, N., Samsudin, N. F., M Said, S., & Tarsik, N. F. (2019). Recognizing the personal competencies of future information professionals. Acta Informatica Malaysia, 3(1), 21-23. http://doi.org/10.26480/aim.01.2019.21.23
Palmer, M. (2022). Study of future public library trends & best practices. Public Library Quarterly, 41(1), 83-107. https://doi-org.ezproxy.csu.edu.au/10.1080/01616846.2020.1868224