Libraries Have Survived the Economic Depression, But Budget Cuts Threaten Access

A new study out (supported by the ALA) affirms that libraries have "weather[ed] the storm of the economic depression, but funding cuts now threaten to undermine public access to public libraries. Find the Final 2011-2012 report here: Libraries Connect Communities: Public Library Funding & Technology Access Study 2011-2012.  I will also place a link on the Articles Page.

Sadly, though libraries are being used more and more, those who fund libraries continue to think that they are a luxury, not a necessity.  Hopefully, this study will help to change public perception.

The Mission of the 21st Century Library

The 21st Century Library provides:

—An environment where learning occurs

—A forum in which to form intellectual communities

—A place for study and creativity

—A collaborative center for learning

—State of the art technology for patrons to help them narrow the gap of the digital divide

—Research instruction and quality curriculum supporting information sources in the most appropriate formats.

—Space, equipment and support for project development of all types.

In broad terms, this is a more specific answer to the post I made about the role of the library a few days ago. This is in regard to academic libraries, but I think these same goals would be appreciated in a public library as well.  I took inspiration from Snow College's Mission Statement.