Comments on: MultiGrain Discussion: Even when “something’s gotta give,” libraries are thriving…right? Join the debate!

By: Tasneem

Tasneem — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 05:29:58 +0000

Libraries and Libraians are fast adapting to the changes in user needs and the various types and forms in which information is available today. In the age of Information overdose, users are returning to the Library where they can get quick access to the precise information that they need. Yes, Libraies are thriving inspite of budget cuts and will continue to do so.

By: Genny Engel

Genny Engel — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 18:28:54 +0000

The whole starting premise of “low usage and shrinking budgets” is an assumption, not a fact. Our library’s budget has declined in recent years, but our usage levels have drastically increased. By usage, I mean circulation, in-person visits, and website / OPAC usage. This last measure of electronic use is something that’s frequently overlooked as the count of reference questions declines.

By: Nicole Miller

Nicole Miller — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 22:00:41 +0000

I can only respond based on the three public libraries and one academic library I’ve visited this year. All of them were very busy at various times of day. I’ve seen heavy use of the children’s library in two locations and heavy computer use in all locations. I think it’s important to note that the thriving library of tomorrow will not look the same as the thriving library of yesterday. Technology and interests are constantly changing. As long as libraries keep up with technology and local interests, they can find ways to respond to their communities’ needs. And yes, that means that they will continue to thrive.

By: Sara Bahnmaier

Sara Bahnmaier — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 17:51:55 +0000

I think municipal,county and state libraries haven’t seen the end of budget cutting yet. How much will be preserved? Some libraries will go away for good or branches and hours cut drastically. In an age of Internet information discovery, voters and leaders will be less inclined to restore them once the crisis is past, until the other non-expendable civil services are fully provided once again, e.g., schools, police & fire, environmental and recreational, etc.

By: Valerie Horton

Valerie Horton — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 15:38:41 +0000

In Colorado it may be a draw. We have lots of new libraries opening (mostly public libraries) – beautiful buildings that are real focal points in their communities. On the negative side, lots of libraries no longer have professionals on staff (particularly in the schools), and lots of libraries have had funding cuts – a draw!

By: Jeannine Berroteran

Jeannine Berroteran — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 15:05:12 +0000

While libraries are facing tough financial challenges (and they will have to come up with ways to adequately serve the public with less resources), I believe libraries are (and will continue to thrive) thriving. Their mission may slightly change and what they will need to meet the demands of a changing society will change but, judging from the different types of libraries I have been in (small & large academic and public libraries in large cities, small towns, and rural areas), I do not think the library, as an institution, will be going away anytime soon. As long as people will have a need for a library, the library will be there for them and it will have to transform to meet the ever changing needs of a changing society.

By: Val Fisher

Val Fisher — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 14:20:30 +0000

I think libraries are thriving and adapting and will continue to thrive if they are willing to change. At a time when the economy is in the toilet, people get free access to programs, dvd’s and other kinds of media. Sooo, it isn’t only books and if libraries continue to provide what the public needs they will continue to thrive. We have free computer training, how to search for a job, how to interview, free movie showings complete with free refreshments–for all ages and at all times. Of course, as long as libraries are willing to adapt, they will thrive.