Libraries are not disappearing at all with the advent of modern technology. Even though there is a general perception that technology has reshaped all the fields of our life. To some extent, one can say that it has shed a strong influence. But all it depends upon the nature of the products and services of any given field.
When we talk about the impact of modern technology on libraries. Yes, it has brought a lot of changes. People nowadays prefer more ebooks to print books. They have easy access and affordable prices to reach these resources which used to be very difficult in the past.
Apart from all these innovations, we can not say that modern-day libraries are disappearing. On the contrary, they are even evolving more than ever before. Modern technology proved a catalyst in the growth of libraries.
Libraries are changing
The belief that the current methods of library service are no longer effective is false. There is no longer a need to rely on books as a medium for information, and with digitization, new ways to provide learning material have been found. New digital solutions are evolving at a quick pace; libraries have to keep up with the new technology. Whether they are physical centers with computers, giant online databases, educational podcasts, or one-on-one tutoring, libraries have a multitude of services to provide for today’s learners.
One of the largest developments in libraries today is the increasing use of digital technology. No longer do students have to return a book late, causing them to lose their reading record.
Libraries are still important
While we may not think of libraries as essential, they are a vital part of our communities. While they might not be a place you want to spend a lot of time, they are still a valuable resource for users of all ages and in all types of communities.
Just take a look at these statistics from our local survey:
- 91 percent of the adults say they use a library at least occasionally, an all-time high.
- Almost nine in 10 adults (88 percent) with library cards borrow books or other materials at least once a month.
- About Fifty-six percent of library cardholders have used the Internet at a library at least once, with 19 percent using it frequently.
- One in eight —13 percent—have access to a home computer with Internet access.
What libraries can do for you
Whether you’re a student who works during the day, an out-of-towner visiting family for the weekend, or an individual seeking a quiet space to work, a library is a perfect place to visit. From public computer areas to the opportunity to listen to a presentation, you can find a wide variety of opportunities to explore. And there are even plenty of learning opportunities for adults, which is more common than you might think.
Libraries have a long history of being community centers for all members of the community, both to learn and to gain access to the internet. They may not have the large building areas of a typical big-box store, but they provide a wealth of information and community outreach that other stores and museums can’t provide.
Why Libraries Matter
Libraries play a very important role in society, and that’s why their history deserves to be preserved for future generations. Here are a few of the reasons why you should support your local library, and why you should never stop using them. Try to use the services of libraries to nullify the rumour that libraries are disappearing.
Libraries that provide free access to computers are becoming more and more common, but libraries that have open hours are still relatively rare. While patrons can check out books and movies at most libraries, many of these locations also provide computers, WiFi, and digital media resources such as E-books and online databases.
Those with restricted computers are able to use the library’s computers to print out documents or do work or check out any number of media resources.
How libraries are evolving
People aren’t necessarily using libraries for the same things they used to. In the days of the library card, books were the primary attraction. Today, of course, libraries serve more as a resource for research than a place to simply get a book. Modern-day libraries are equipped well with innovative technology.
These knowledge centers provide better solutions to the knowledge seekers which was not possible in the past. So consequently, we can see that the outreach of printed books, ebooks, and other study material is very easy for the readers.
When we talk about the relationship between academia and the library. It seems like a wonderful collaboration. More and more education institutions encourage their students to visit libraries to fulfill their academic needs. Governments are also trying to allocate sufficient funds to facilitate the libraries. So, a new and healthy trend is emerging in developed societies. While on the other hand, the developing countries are also working on it with the collaboration of international organizations.
However, according to Publishers Weekly, there is still a strong social aspect to libraries. Not everyone can afford to buy books, and not everyone wants to spend all day at the library browsing for new titles. People have become used to using technology to get their information, and the library offers a central place to find those books.
In addition, people continue to seek out self-help books in libraries, which is a unique use for libraries today.
Conclusion
Libraries will not be obsolete anytime soon. Or we can say that libraries are not disappearing due to technology. Rather, they will evolve as more and more people embrace digital media. While some libraries are being closed, other libraries are expanding to meet the needs of their communities.
As library software and services evolve, these libraries are staying relevant, while also providing unique educational opportunities and resources to their users. Libraries will not go away, they will just change. And we need them to keep evolving, especially in the digital era. If they do, the next generation may never know the joy of being banished to a dungeon (no offense).
