The Role of Libraries in the Digital Age

 

Several technological advances have eliminated, supplanted, or altered the more traditional forms of information provided by libraries. For example, recorded thought in the form of a book, monograph, or newspaper is at the very core of what a library has traditionally provided its users. This material is now available in new forms and accessible in new ways. The content and services of libraries have already changed greatly in the last few years as existing information has been converted to electronic form and made available online as with the University of Guyana Library which launched its online services in 2011 and 2012, and on Intranets in corporate libraries in Guyana. Many institutions in Guyana and even other countries will continue to make progress in digitizing existing content to free up shelf space and make more information available to more people outside.

 

As electronic information continues to grow, printed material no longer is regarded as the gold standard in the research, education, and public spheres. Newer technologies can be expected to reinforce this trend. For example, nothing is more fundamental to the traditional concept of a library than a book. Yet technology is redefining the very concept of what constitutes a book. This evolution is accompanied by the rigorous debate in the library and publishing worlds. For each expert who offers a vision of the e-book, living book, or networked book, another decries the reported death of the printed word. For example, Jeffrey Young describes the idea of a “networked” book created through a collaboration between author and readers in an online environment.  Paula Bernstein presents a similar vision: “A networked book is ‘social’…it is a hub, a facilitator, a lively entity that brings people together to discuss and experiment. It’s both a process and a product.” Technologist and marketing expert David Weinberger highlights several current technologies, such as aggregation of metadata and digital annotation systems that will radically affect physical books and the associated industries and professions. “Digital writing isn’t between covers,” he notes, “…which is to say it’s hyperlinked. In 2007, Weinberger also notes that this change will accelerate with the advent of an accessible, effective electronic book reader.

 

Technology is changing the dominant form of recorded thought from print to electronic. The library profession now has a decade or more of automation experience behind it, and the trend toward national bibliographic control and associated computer operations is unmistakable. Libraries will become principal access points for information and learning in the nation. As our government sharpens its focus on the new information environment, however, libraries will likely be designated to play a more active informational and educational role. The obvious changes to anticipate will involve major shifts toward digital formats.