Reading Response 10/19

The Infodiet: How Libraries Can Offer an Appetizing Alternative to Google

This article, the Infodiet, discussed the unfortunate trend of library obsoletion. It touched on the idea that students have been "Google-ized", so used to using google as their primary source of information that they do not know how to properly research. Libraries have several valuable resources available and a lot of it is available on the computer it is simply a matter of being able to find it. Students, however, are not familiar with these databases and how to properly find what they are looking for so libraries are looking to make these interfaces more usable and student-friendly. A couple of different interfaces have come out to make the databases more approachable and google-like in nature. Students want an easy-access quick information when they search which is definitely not what happens in a database search. Unfortunately, even some professors are unfamiliar with the amount of high quality information that is available to everyone.

I agree with this article completely. It is unfortunate that students have come to rely on these search engines and don’t know how to properly research. I have noticed this simply from attending library class. The databases that we have learned about and the proper ways to search them should be taught to the incoming freshmen. Rather than having a freshman seminar class, or even included in that class, students should be taught how to navigate these databases so that the quality of information gotten from the internet and used for papers and other academic items will be higher.

Reading Report 10/7 #2

Why the next big pop culture wave after cupcakes might be libraries

There are several trends that have appeared as of late that have caught the attention of the larger public. Usually these trends start with a buzz and this article highlighted the buzz around libraries and the likelihood that they may start becoming more popular. After an article came out stating that libraries are outdated several publications fought back, furious that such a thing had been printed. Several constant traits that libraries have always possessed are very trendy and appealing as of late. For instance, the library is free, green and local. People are always looking to spend less money while at the same time looking for a green alternative to their current habits, the library provides both. Also, the fact that knowledge and having a lot of information or passion about a topic has become less of a stigmatism and is praised. The word geek is no longer derogatory and knowing things is cool- libraries provide endless information and are filled with librarians filled with knowledge. There was even mention of library based tv and movie ideas that could come about. The library may be on its way back in.

I think that this may be partly true. Because there is so much buzz about libraries, people defending them in widely read articles, a lot more people are likely to rethink libraries. Libraries are interesting places that aren’t always shown in such a light. If more people are exposed to positive talk they may be more likely to use a library.

Reading Report 10/7

The ‘library of the future’ begins to emerge

This article talked about the digital revolution and the impact that it is having on today’s libraries. Because information is so readily available to people at the click of a button it makes libraries full of books seem outdated. In order to keep up, libraries are digitalizing themselves. There are some 24/7 online libraries that provide support and resources to teens and adults alike which is one step forward. Librarians do not become obsolete; they take on a new role of helping people to find information. There are other plans for the library of the future, they are totally rethinking the physicality of the library and creating an environment that is more like a community that a cold, quiet building filled with books. This new library will be more user-friendly and less intimidating than the library most people have come to know.

I think that this is definitely a step in the right direction for libraries. I personally have always enjoyed going to the library but do remember a small feeling of disrespect when speaking to another or intimidation by the large information desks and strict librarians. Trying to make the library more relatable to a lot of people is also important. The fact that they are trying to become more digitalized and involved in social networking and things of that nature will encourage people to think of the library differently, more approachable. Learning doesn’t always have to be stuffy, cold and boring which is what these new libraries will prove.