Future of Public Libraries in an Internet Age
Since its arrival, the Internet has been steadily gaining popularity. This has some people speculating about the future of public libraries, wondering whether the Internet will make libraries obsolete.
Other People Are Reading
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Internet Access for Everyone
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Not everyone has access to the Internet. Most large public libraries feature computers with Internet access available to the general public, providing access to those who do not have one at home. It is important to keep in mind that not everything can be found on the Internet. The copyright law, as of 2010, protects works for 70 years after an author's death.
Diminishing Locations
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As more information becomes widely available for use online, the public may have less reason to go to the library to check out a book. This may result in a smaller selection of books, which may, in turn, lessen the need for a library in some situations. It is unlikely that libraries will become obsolete since it is expensive to digitize a book and the amount of books in the world would take years to digitize. Libraries also are a place to learn and teach and provide many programs for the community.
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Fees
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With less physical books and subsequently less money received in fees, some libraries may charge small membership fees or a sliding scale system to help cover the costs of equipment, services and building rental.
Libraries are More than Books
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One important facet of a library is the librarian within. She provides guidance to patrons on how to find and access information. Librarians are trained in the the most advanced techniques for locating information, no matter what its form.
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References
- "I Found It on the Internet: Coming of Age Online"; Frances Jacobson Harris; 2005
- "Public Libraries and the Internet: Roles, Perspectives, and Implications"; John Carlo Bertot, Charles McClure, and Paul T. Jaeger; 2010
- CollegeOnline.org: Are Librarians Totally Obsolete
- U.S. Copyright Office: How Long Does Copyright Protection Last?
- Photo Credit library books image by Daughterson from Fotolia.com
