Nov 23, 2015

The Future of Libraries

Besides the Wake Forest library, I am not sure the last time I have been in a public library. To be blunt, I am not really sure why I would need too. In today’s age, it seems like almost any information you can find in a library you can also find online. With the convince of using eBooks, and the easy access to scholarly journals online, it is difficult to find a real reason to go to the library. Before the internet, it makes a ton of sense to use the library. It would be a students, or individuals main source for information, as there are stacks of books on almost any topic imaginable. But now, with the convenience of the internet, it just does not make much sense.

I think in order for libraries to continue being popular, and ultimately continue to exist, there must be some major changes. I think the first major change is integrating technology into all libraries. I know this is a tough task, as it would be expensive, but it would make a significant difference. Many individuals who are using libraries, are not using them to check out books. They are visiting them to use the internet, and take advantage of the free computers. This is evident from the information below:

Digital image. *Social times*. Opensite.org, 28 Jan. 2013. Web. <http://www.adweek.com/socialtimes/the-future-of-libraries-infographic/183486>.

When looking at the graphic, I think the surprising statistics are the ones that focus on jobs and finding careers. I believe if libraries want to continue to exist, and ultimately grow they should create a service and online database in order to help American’s find job in an effective. I would hire libraries that are not only extremely knowledgeable on researching and finding information, but also the job application and job search process.

In conclusion, I think the entire way people search for information is also changing. The past was using books and text in order to gather information and research. Although, in the current age individuals are much more inclined to use the internet. In order for libraries to continue to grow I think it is important that they are able to stay current and up to date with changing methods of finding information.