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This is a great debate… on one hand there is the potential for traditional libraries and librarians to be entirely replaced by vending machine style devices and lockers. On the other hand, this technology brings an opportunity to serve the “on demand” generation of consumers, who were never focused on using the general resources of the library in the first place. These are the folks who simply want to borrow books at a time that is convenient for them. What this left out of this discussion is the role e-books, yet another on demand service that doesn’t spell the end of the traditional library. In fact, these new technologies, if anything, should reinforce the need for libraries in the community and there should be a feeling of excitement that people are willing to step up and retool the library to meet their current needs. Overall, a good argument can be made that the concern over the role of new technology is being confused with the budget issues that are plaguing the nation. Yes, many of these innovations would not have come without the budget crunch, but the goal should be to use these tools to begin shaping behaviors and get people back to the libraries. The numbers in many areas already prove that visitorship is up and usage rates will likely continue to rise if the community has after hours access. By studying the data on when people are picking up their books, as well as what kind of books they are reading, down the road, libraries can begin to adjust their hours to meet these needs (especially when the economy improves), and they can even begin to develop and advertise new programming to this demographic. If anything, these new technologies could become the glue that will bond a new generation to their public library.
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