The Role of Libraries in the Arts and Local Culture
Why do I need a library? That is the question that worries many librarians today and has kept libraries on their toes. Why indeed! With the promise of new technologies such as the iPad, computer tablets, phone apps, and electronic readers, people have found information and pleasure reading at their fingertips. So what's the point of having the outdated bricks and mortar institution known as the library? That is the question Wayne State University's English Professor M.L. Liebler discusses at the SOLIS hosted event known as "The Role of Libraries in the Arts and Local Culture".
At "The Role of Libraries in the Arts and Local Culture," M.L. Liebler discusses how the functionality of the bricks and mortar library will change. It is true that people can find what they need from the simple touch of a button, but libraries have one core function that will never change: being a community center. While it is true that you can meet up with your friends at Starbucks or Barnes and Noble, it is unlikely that you will be allowed to stay there for very long without buying something. Whereas a library is the one place you can stay as long as you'd like without the pressure of a monetary exchange.
In addition, M.L. Liebler discusses how the publishing and book selling environment is changing. Traditional bookstores, like Borders, are having a hard time keeping up with how the emerging technologies impact their industry and eventually go out of business. Therefore publishers will need to look for alternative places to market their authors. Libraries could become the next book signing and reading venue.
In addition to the technological implications to libraries, M.L. Liebler shares his tales of adventures as a local artist and the impact libraries had on his career. To watch the SOLIS event "The Role of Libraries in the Arts and Local Culture", check out the video recording: https://connect.slis.wayne.edu/p38155025.