A collection of select literature about the state of libraries today. If you see any article that touches on how a modern library can impact communities in a positive way, please let us know.
The State of America’s Libraries Report 2023
American Library Association (ALA) provides an overview of the state of libraries in the United States in 2022. The report finds that libraries are facing a number of challenges, including reduced funding, increased censorship, and the growing digital divide. However, the report also finds that libraries are adapting and innovating in order to meet the needs of their communities.
The Impact of Libraries as Creative Spaces
Ready access to information through digital media has challenged the perceived societal roles of public libraries. Since the mid 1990s, libraries have reoriented themselves towards public participation beyond lending and reading. Libraries now offer an increasing range of community-focused creative activities. Library spaces are transforming. In addition to housing archival and loan materials, desks and reading spaces, libraries are becoming even more flexible and activity-oriented. Given these transformations, understanding and demonstrating the new contributions public libraries make to their communities is critical. 6/2017
The Importance of Book-Centered Spaces as Third Places
The article discusses the importance of places that are informal, neutral gathering spaces where people can spend their free time and meet others in their community. 8/2023
How Libraries are Boldly Innovating to Meet the Needs of Changing Communities
More than a decade ago, the city of Lafayette in the greater San Francisco Bay Area did some soul-searching about the fate of its library. With a population of just a little more than 25,000, the city had outgrown the tiny 1960s building within a decade. The library’s structure was falling apart, which was especially problematic in earthquake country. As the conversation about building a new library ramped up, Steve King, a longtime resident and small business economy researcher, wasn’t so sure a brick-and-mortar library was even needed — not with the Internet seemingly taking its place. The way he saw it, you could find much of the same information online as you could at the library — anytime, without even leaving the house. 11/2016
How Libraries are Boldly Innovating to Meet the Needs of Changing Communities