Today I have had the opportunity to share with my colleagues at "Refresh", a Wellington Regional Public Libraries Conference. A great networking and sharing opportunity across the region as different staff contributed to sessions and concluded with a library ideas bazaar.
The day began with a panel discussion on "The Library in 2025" chaired by Barbara Garriock (LIANZA President). Panellists were Penny Carnaby (CE and National Librarian, National Library of NZ), Sue Roberts (University Librarian, Victoria University of Wellington), Joann Ransom (Head of Libraries, Horowhenua Library Trust) and myself.
Yes, we believe that public libraries will exist in 2025 and be even more important. Yes, we see librarians more highly trained and as mediators with information.
I think that future thinking will lead to a new agenda. Many trends are in our society already and we need to look at future implications. I see the Library brand being increasingly important and libraries working together as larger units to achieve critical mass. Place and the value of local communties will be everything. Baby boomers will continue to influence in their retirement, together with a new fully digital generation in the globally connected world.
A video link to the panel discusion will be available soon if you wish to hear more.
Jane Hill
Welcome. Since 1994 I have been the Manager of Wellington City Libraries. I'm passionate about the future of libraries, and in June 2010 I have been elected President Elect of LIANZA.
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