It seems strange to note that in all the messages about the
need for changes in libraries no one has mentioned the
discussions at last years Umbrella conference. When just
this topic was discussed.
There was an excellent seminar on the need for change, and
the changes that had taken place in the East Riding area of
Yorkshire, see
http://www.eastriding.gov.uk/index.html, where change has
resulted in increased use and demand. In particular with
mobile libraries and small branch libraries.
While at the same time the use of urban area libraries has
been the topic of discussion and change with the Idea Store
concept being around for some time. See:
http://www.ideastore.co.uk/story/
Perhaps if these ideas we used nationally we might all
gain something from them.
On Tue, 4 May 2004 12:20:31 +0100 Frances Hendrix
<[log in to unmask]> wrote:
> Of course Kirsty is right, no one actively wants to be without the pubic
> library, but we need to take action now. Will the next generation of
> potential users value the service as much as the current generation?
> Will the library have what tomorrows main stream traditional users want,
> and will it be able to attract the current and future non users? This
> wont happen by happen chance, we need to fund, train, plan and
> strategically manage, as well as do the necessary market research
> urgently, so we do keep ahead of the game, and have a relevant public
> library service that will survive and prosper beyond the 21st Century,
> and have what the pubic want and need.
>
> Just look at the traditional organisations that have disappeared in this
> country over the last couple of decades, mad those that are currently
> struggling. Nothing lasts forever unless you work at it and change it.
>
----------------------
Jim Jackson
C/O The Law Library
University of Exeter
Rennes Drive Tel:44(0) 1392 263356
Exeter.
EX4 4RJ Fax:44(0) 1392 263196
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Any Opinions expressed in this message are my own,
and not those of the University of Exeter. They do not form any statement
by the University of Exeter or any other member there of.
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