2 Point Oh Yeah!

When thinking about Library 2.0, my thoughts centered on the presentation given by the architect who is working on the Sand Creek renovation and the new Falcon Branch. He showed many pictures of libraries that have been built or revamped recently, and I was very impressed by their use of their public space, and the way they built/adapted their buildings into their neighborhoods and their technology into the public space. It seems to me these integrations are important as libraries move forward to keep pace with our cities and ever-evolving technologies.

Advancements in tools such as WiFi and RFID are revolutionizing the way libraries distribute and track information. Also, keeping pace technologically is important in making to library relevant to a younger generation of patrons. With that in mind, we must still ensure the library is a place where older patrons feel comfortable and balance our acquisitions of entertainment media with educational materials (for example, DVDs of Hollywood hits vs. history books).

I just hope that the increase in technology doesn’t take away the human aspect of libraries. I believe it is very important to maintain a library’s status as a place for people to assemble and exchange ideas. This is crucial not just for libraries’ survival, but for the health of our country’s democracy as well.


All that said, it would be pretty cool if the next hire in one of departments bridged the gap between the old and new; someone who would be comfortable with advancing technologies, but with a personal, almost maternal, demeanor. The perfect choice? Rosie the Robot, of course (shown here performing a musical number in Funky Fairy Tales).