Our local library is a bit of an oasis now. We are in a suburb where the library is a district library, receiving funding predominately from local property taxes. Because we receive very little funding from our state, which is threatened, we do not have the money issues of other local libraries. And our tax base has been supportive. The library has operated well on the funding, but in my opinion has not investigated many new ways of investing in our patron's needs. Our patrons are spread across all economic levels, and we have programs and offerings for all, but in my sense our technologically advanced patrons are being underserved. How is this? The library has a web site that offers basic information about the library, with some static links that are rarely updated pointing to news sources. There are links to the databases that patrons can access funded by the library, and this is a good thing. There is also a link to our subscription to Overdrive for downloadable audiobooks and reader ebooks. Our selection is limited, and does not support the Kindle, the most popular reader currently. The library does host some programs that can be said to be aimed at technically astute patrons, but truly not many. The kids have library programs for those who know their way around a Wii, but there haven't been any adult programs for those that know their way around Facebook.
What are the kinds of questions tech-savvy patrons have for our library? In talking to neighbors and talking to patrons at the library, I've heard a number of topics being raised. To these I add topics that I have seen in reviewing library websites:
1. How do you use downloadable audiobooks and ebooks? What are the best players/readers?
2. Are there tricks to better using the online catalog?
3. I found a book I liked online, at Amazon or Goodreads or another book site. How can I quickly see if I can check out the book from the library, or put it on reserve?
4. How can I access the library website, purchased databases, or online catalog from my ipad or phone?
5. Do you have any programs aimed at people like me, interested in technology and related issues?
6. I'm on Facebook, how do I sign up for programs online?
7. How can I get book due dates to show up on my Outlook/Notes/Google/Blackberry calendar? How about program notices?
8. Do I have to visit the library to take part in programs or meetings, or can you make these available through the internet, like webcasting and audio?
9. Are there other sources of information the library can make available to us through the internet? How about a shared Netflix account, is that possible?
10. There are hobbies I have where shared space is important, or hobbies that require tools that may be too expensive for individuals to use, but which may make sense in groups, all while still meeting the local library's stated mission. For instance, "makerspaces", which are open community labs for patrons to build projects on computers, technology and art, could be a use of a public library. Also, some libraries have sound or video studios for patrons interesting in recording voice and/or music. Can the library support these kinds of community resources?
And there are more questions and concerns.
Should the library meet these concerns? I believe they should be considered. Obviously, meeting every stated need of every patron is difficult and costly, but can we find a way to meet some of these needs? I suggest assigning a technology czar - an employee that can investigate the needs of the patrons as well as the state of technology and can begin to create or collect new functionality to meet these needs. The "Library Tech Czar", or LTC, would be a person who is not afraid of new technologies and who is expert in social media -- who is in fact social. I can also see a tech advisory committee with at least some members with a similar mindset -- perhaps this is a way to involve younger patrons.
As our library district is also home to a residential university as well as a couple of commuter universities and a branch office for the local community college, I believe we have the kinds of technical resources available to create, collect, and maintain new functionality that could be available, say as summer interns, at a reasonable rate while keeping salaries in the community. I see the creation of new quick training videos could be a quick win for our patrons to answer some of their common questions.
For investments in hardware or space, I would suggest that new sources of funding be explored:
- Would Amazon or B&N loan us a reader for user review?
- Would the local cellular company fund development of a mobile catalog component?
- Would the local engineering company fund a makerspace for future engineers?
- Can the library partner with these companies to invest in new functionality for patrons?
This is just a start. I would love to capture additional questions/concerns/requirements. Let me know if you run across any.
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