Topic > The Future of Public Libraries - 583

Frail, Fatal, Fundamental: The Future of Public Libraries by Mark Norman examines futurists' prediction of the future of public libraries and then compares it to his own views based on his role management of Rockdale City Council Library Services. Norman's article builds on a series of articles by futurists and their predictions about the future of public libraries, focusing on how libraries must adapt from their perceived function in the community to one in which they offer valuable services to the modern community. Norman therefore likes to compare these futuristic predictions with his “realist” opinions. Norman also touches on the “digital divide” and explains what services and resources are needed to bridge this gap. This review will examine Norman's discussions in relation to the digital and technological world facing public libraries in modern society. First Norman raises a valid point against Torrone's view that the majority of the public has the Internet. In fact, Torrone states that “everyone already has access to the Internet”. Norman's opinion is that Internet access is ...