Rare Book Monthly
Libraries on the Brink: A topic at the Anarchist Book Fair
"Libraries need to be more enticing"
Jeremy too believes libraries need to change. People only read one book a year so libraries should recognize that people go to libraries for many other purposes. Get away from privileged, elite services. Have longer hours. In two words: get competitive.
An unnamed contributor said "put more emphasis on public university libraries. Public libraries are more for children.
Roxane pointed out that libraries often don't have the newest material so she finds herself going to book stores to get it. She also likes the comfortable atmosphere in big book stores and doesn't find this in libraries. When I offered a summary of her views - "libraries need to be more enticing" she emphatically agreed.
Adam suggested library issues are part of the larger problems cities face. Apparently speaking of San Francisco he offered, "What do you expect when you live in a city that doesn't provide services" for people with problems?" He worked at a library in Santa Rosa and said they face the same unresolved social issues there.
Peter, to the question "how to make libraries more relevant" offered "get more anarchist books." But he also said he doesn't use libraries himself. I own the books I use. Libraries are great for journals and databases. As to whether he's optimistic or pessimistic he expressed concern.
Tom offered we should make sure we do not cheapen the texts. It's not so important to have every book. In the future we may need libraries more than we think we do today.
Danny. Libraries are trying to adapt. They understand the value of their services. He suggests local budgets and customer awareness are important factors in making libraries effective. He suggests there is a healthy dynamic between demanding patrons and libraries with sufficient budgets – together they can find a way to the future. But this also implies that libraries that lack either one or both factors may have trouble. "Libraries have to both take the lead and follow the lead of their patrons."
Kaya. Libraries need to promote themselves. They offer valuable validation but seem reluctant to speak about it.
Moira. Libraries should bring in more underground press, more non-mainstream material, the other viewpoints Howard Besser spoke about.
Matt. How do libraries get to the next generation? It's all about selecting the right material. Choose what people will want." He also offered, "I'm probably the only person here who also attended the ABAA fair."
