Recent advances in technology and software have changed the 9-5 office hours for many professions, as families were forced to work from home during the pandemic. Organisations closed their doors to stop the spread of COVID-19. However, from this mandatory closure organisations have realised that it is possible for them to operate remotely. Shifting from an office-centric culture to a more flexible working model post the pandemic (Arneson, 2021).
Remote flexible working is still experimental, mainly because the role out was due to necessity rather than choice. Employers working within a remote model are focusing on performance and results instead of set office hours (Arneson, 2021). Employee flexibility allows the possibility to create a lifestyle and structure that works best for them (Arneson, 2021).
I have observed that with more employees leaving the traditional work model behind there has been increased foot traffic (during traditional work hours) at the public library. Large companies offering flexible working may have hybrid hubs and sponsored workspaces for employees to access. However, this model is not yet widely adopted. Therefore, many employees are venturing to the library to engage in their work. Leaving the home to simulate a work routine and environment.
It is possible to assume that this shift in the ‘traditional’ way we work will continue to impact libraries into the future. Therefore, it is possible to theorise that adjustments will be adopted to account for this unexpected overflow into the library. For example, potentially more floor space will be given to individual work spaces and meeting rooms. This could be achieved via widespread rollout of the ‘smart library’. The Mansueto Library at the University of Chicago has an automated underground high-density storage and retrieval system (The University of Chicago Library, n.d.). The use of Internet of Things (IoT) and robotics has maximised space usage within the library to allow for a 180-seat Grand Reading Room upstairs. A similar model could be adopted within a public library allowing for more space.
While not every business will be making sweeping changes to the ways employees work, it is my assumption that this emerging trend of flexible work could substantially shift the library industry.
Arneson, K. (2021). Companies are trying to work out the best post-pandemic working model. What can we learn from these four companies? BBC. https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20210915-how-companies-around-the-world-are-shifting-the-way-they-work
The University of Chicago. The Joe and Rika Mansueto Library. (2022). https://www.lib.uchicago.edu/mansueto/
It was very interesting to read about the increase of employees working from home. I had also not heard about the ‘smart library’. Your post has made me wonder how new technology such as the ‘smart library’ will also change the way libraries employ their staff. Thanks for your post.
I agree, it is interesting to theorise how the ‘smart library’ will effect change on the ‘traditional’ library model. I have read about ‘smart libraries’ in both UK and Russia that are now accessible 24hours. I would assume those operational hours would impact staff employment.