thing 16

I liked what Michael Stephens had to say about how the "future of libraries will be guided by how users access, consume and create content." This is so true, we always must think of what the people who use the library want and need. Just because something is really a cool tool, will it fit the wants and needs of our customers. I esp. like the part of a library staff not to stop dreaming about what could be the best library services. I would like to improve so many things at the library I work in, and sometimes can get depressed because I don't see it happening anytime soon, but I still should keep my dreams and who knows some of them might come true.

Wendy Schultz definition of libraries is just perfect. We need to think of ourselves as a collection of conversations and convocations of the people we serve. Libraries are communities they perseve and promote. We as librarians need to remember that not only do we have books and computers, but we have memories too. I have had several people stop in the library and tell me they have good memories from coming here when they were young. Yes the library has changed, but I have come to realize that most people have good memories of the library and it may be the only place where they could create good memories.

The other thing I have realized that with the advances in technology, the librarian of the future must have a knowledge of books and what books fit best the community, but also must have real computer skills in order to keep up with the changing times. "The job duties of the librarian must keep current with the new technology that is available.

So the great thing about things is a lot of us are learning there is a whole new world of internet that is available and FREE which in this day of budget cuts is great.