All of these questions, and more, are asked when the idea and concept of spending lots of money to renovate an outdated library. Around the country, lots of public, university and school libraries are being updated and renovated. The idea of what a library is has changed tremendously in the past 10 years. In order to remain relevant and important, libraries can't just be books anymore.
Access...that is the key to why libraries are still important in 2016. Regardless of income or intelligence, the library is a place for EVERYONE. The library gives resources to those who may not have access to them. The library provides information for those who are curious. The library should be a hub for the town, village, school, college, etc.
We are in the process of waiting for a bond issue to be voted on and one of the projects that was chosen is a complete renovation of the library. This was a smart decision made by faculty and administration because it is a space used by everyone and FOR everyone. Renovated, the library can be a place for students to work quietly, teachers to have team meetings, classes to visit and more. Technology does not negate the use of the library, it should actually enhance it. Libraries can be a place where people come to try new things or bring ideas for projects. Having technology and using it well are two very different things.
I can't wait to see what my school comes up with for our future library. The collaboration is something I look forward to and I am eager to hear ideas and thoughts about what my faculty, staff and students want for our library of the future.
