Libraries on the Brink: A topic at the Anarchist Book Fair
- by Bruce E. McKinney
"It isn't just checking out books anymore."
Don was succinct, "more books, more books. There aren't enough books on the shelves. I want more books. I buy books rather than go to libraries. I like to write in them!"
In total 20 people shared their thoughts and helped us better understand the different perspectives that people have about libraries. Libraries matter. This is clear. Are they to bend to the changing market or is the market to bend to them? Is "library" even a single concept or a Milky Way of unique institutions? There isn't even agreement on whether libraries are places or concepts as about half those interviewed described the library as a place while the other half described it more as a process.
Everyone agrees its important libraries survive. As to how they survive, this is an open question that suggests the future of libraries really is uncertain.
A final note about the fair: it's well worth attending. The people and the material make it a "must attend" so mark your calendar for 2008. We'll see you there.
Here again are links to the video (hi) or video (lo). There are two resolutions; high and low. To view the high resolution you need a DSL, cable or other high speed access. Allow the video about 25 seconds to create your viewing buffer. This will ensure the film plays smoothly.
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