Wednesday, October 24, 2007

Thing #15 Library 2.0 and the future

The Library 2.0 concept predicts that in 5-10 years libraries will be totally different than they are today. Despite all the challenges for those of us who need to adapt, the future trends of Library 2.0 ensure that libraries and librarians will continue to be relevant and valued in the information world. It's exciting that libraries of the present and future can have everything available digitally: books, periodicals, databases, podcasts, blogs, etc. You can literally take the library with you if you are willing to take on the new technologies.



Unfortunately, we still have many "icebergs" which stand in the way of the user, such as our library accounts requiring passwords, and the many steps involved in making a simple photocopy. Also, as we embrace the new technologies, we may leave the less technology savvy patron behind. There are still those patrons who do not want to be participants, but want to be served. Will we still be willing to meet their needs as well?