Libraries in the Future Presented by Joan Frye Williams 2009 CALTAC Workshop
Times are tough
But we can’t just hunker down
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” Alan Kay
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Time is scarce
Netflix-style circulation
Automatic book dispensers
Information is everywhere
Engines, not OPACs
Demand-based resource allocation
Coaching with online forms Strategic Direction 4: From frill to necessity
You carry your activities with you
Recombinant resources Mainstream data formats Easy import/export/snip Toolbars, gadgets, widgets, APIs
Portable e-readers
Mobile services
Collaboration can make you smarter
Connected readers
Virtual outreach
Learning and play are two sides of the same coin
Gaming at the library
Planning, decision-making, and communication take place in real time
Activities buzz Live circulation activity e.g. Yorba Linda book feed Instant online help e.g. Topeka Meebo popup Live program excerpts
Online fundraising
Innovation is everyone‘s job
User-contributed tags (headings)
The idea laboratory A place to TRY new things: Book art studio Media production facility New technology showcase Small business incubator
We only get one Earth, so we’d better take good care of it
Green buildings and practices
Being strategic about all of this: “Futureproofing” moves
From exception to mainstream
Less gate-keeping, more convenience
From altruism to return on investment
Less perfectionism, more efficiency
From a focus on the past to a focus on the future
Less caution, more flexibility
From frill to necessity
Less reticence, more urgency
From information to transformation
Less anonymity, more humanity
Public library roles for tomorrow and beyond… Entry point Promoter and advocate Convener Partner/collaborator/facilitator Communicator Good example Laboratory Economic engine
Show the passion!