Libraries of the future

Libraries of the future will further develop their social and community aspect. Already in rural areas libraries often offer access to broadband that is not available or utilized within the home. This public access to all sorts of technology and knowledge will continue to be an equalizer and excellent alternative for those who do not have the financial means and/or desire to have these technologies in the home or at work.

In addition to quiet, focused work spaces, libraries will offer spaces that allow and even encourage people to interact, converse and learn about each other, contributing greatly to the community aspect of the library. Whether people rent a book from the library, use a library computer, or bring their own books or laptops, people will find future libraries great places to study, to relax, to collaborate and to read. The sense of place, community and belonging amongst others that a library can provide will never be replicated by technology.

Already, in coffee shops and cafes such as Starbucks, all over Boston, people have shown that they not only enjoy doing work and relaxing in the company of others, but that they are willing to pay for it. I personally spent many hours in the library of my university relaxing and reading the newspaper in the comfortable chairs and sofas provided. I hope that in the future, libraries will continue to be a place in which I can meet new people and old friends, start and develop relationships, and of course further educate myself on my community and the world around me.