The term ‘Library 2.0’ has been around for over a decade. With the emergence of new
“Digital Book” by jbracken is licensed under CC BY 2.0
technologies and social networking sites, information professions were faced with new challenges in maintaining client engagement and connecting with users. Successful libraries and information agencies have adapted accordingly through time to keep up with the changing technological and information landscape, providing users with information and services previously offered but through new and creative ways. In the paper “BiblioTech as the re-imagined public library: where will it find you?” and the TEDx presentation (2016) related to the paper, Laura Cole discusses some interesting ideas pertaining to digital libraries. As a regular user of the local public library, these ideas would be quite applicable to their setting in expanding their clientele.
One of the key points presented is the idea of physical access to resources and books. To elaborate on this, the speaker gives specific examples of users that may typically have limited access (visually impaired, incarcerated, physically disabled) to print materials/books and resources. Limitations to access are removed with a digital library collection. Thus, users are able to access digital books and online information, regardless of disability or physical constraints. For the local public library, this would also ensure patrons can safely access materials during this unpredictable global crisis of the Covid-19 pandemic.
In addition to this, the concept of portability of digital books and resources was also discussed, which allows all users to easily access materials from anywhere and at any time. Portability increases ease and efficiency of access and in turn would have a positive impact on user engagement.
Another key point presented is the idea of providing equitable access to resources. Within the presented digital library concept, users can connect to the library Wi-Fi and resources free of charge! If adopted on a larger scale, this initiative could have significant implications in improving information and literacy skills within the community and reading engagement, particularly for information agencies in low socio-economic areas. Providing free internet access would in turn mean an equal opportunity for all users regardless of their demographics or backgrounds to access information.
Moreover, the efficiency in physical space required in libraries and information agencies to functionally serve as an information provider/resource centre is another aspect with considerable implications. Although, collaborative spaces would still be essential for face-to-face interaction and user activities, providing access to digital books and online services would save a huge amount of physical space as less print materials would be kept/stored. This would be especially useful for information agencies with space constraints and limitations.
References
Cole, L. (2016) BiblioTech as the re-imagined public library: where will it find you? Paper presented at: IFLA WLIC 2016 – Columbus, OH – Connections. Collaboration. Community in Session 213 – Metropolitan Libraries.
TEDx Talks. (2016, April 15). The reimagined library – where will it find you? | Laura Cole | TEDxSanAntonio [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/PnYDl66YfQ0