Technology and Change in Academic Libraries

Technology and Change in Academic Libraries
Tom Peters, Smart Libraries, May 2007, Volume XXVII, Number 5

An interesting discussion on the ten areas most likely to be affected in the future library. Most notably in technology were digitization and digital archiving along with multi-user virtual environments (Second Life). Librarians need to continue to grow with emerging technology. It was noted that traditionally libraries have been holders of the printed materials however, a look around today’s campus’ show empty seats in the library. Many students prefer to do their research via the internet or other sources that are not funded by the libraries budget creating a chasm between how libraries were once defined and how they are actually used today.
While distance learning will continue to grow, on-campus learning will not be replaced. With increasingly more information available to the general public we may see a social shift in the hierarchy between higher education and the general public. Sage advice was offered by one attendee at the ACRL National Conference in Baltimore in March ’07, “Don’t assume that people care about libraries. People care about streamlining the processes that support research and learning.”

What I learned:
I am fortunate to be studying a field that will be in a state of flux as the information age ripens. I will continue to experiment and master technology. I liken my technology education to healthy eating, it’s a lifestyle not a diet; everyday is a disciplined attack.