On Libraries and New Media, powered by Library Journal and School Library Journal
“Libraries will serve in the same role they always have: As curators of information for their communities. Librarians are ‘information specialists’ and they will continue to connect readers with all forms of reading. Patrons will come to libraries for recommendations of what to read next and to find and discover relevant information.”
The next big innovation to impact the ebook landscape should be broad availability of text books in electronic format once a business model is reached that publishers can be comfortable with. In the meantime, consolidation of eBook companies and increasing competition is driving innovations for better eBook products and services for libraries.
Libraries must develop the right models and collaborate with the right partners to be able to deliver content to their patrons in the correct formats on the devices of choice.
As more books go digital, librarians will occupy more of the training and coaching role. Today’s librarian will need to excel at training users on how to use databases, eReaders, tablets and mobile.
The management of digital resources requires a selection and evaluation process by a professional who’s involved with integrating technology into teaching and learning. We see examples of this change underway in lots of libraries today.
The materials may evolve, and the design and use of physical space in the buildings may shift, but the central role of libraries doesn’t change. Libraries democratize access to information and entertainment, and provide the spaces for both individual pursuit and community engagement.
The challenge of a digital world is how to connect a patron’s needs and interests with the right digital information. Libraries will play a vital role in showing people books the wide variety of books and authors that are available. Without variety we could becomes a nation of books only read from a top 10 list.
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