Horizon Issues 3. Revival of Libraries, Librarians and Books Return to Issues List Neglected, underfunded, and understaffed for a decade, the value of good libraries may regain wide acceptance as the public grows more savvy about the weaknesses and the costs of electronic information. The value of information savvy librarians may also come into focus as schools emphasize information literacy skills and professional development.
Teachers are likely to demand good print collections and full funding of library programs.
The idea of information mediation will once again win supporters as we learn to trust the suggestions of librarians offering us guidance and pointing us to resources worth our time. Two examples . . . A Manifesto Do a search at Electric Library and read at least 2 articles that cast light on this trend or issue. The opinions expressed in the issues pages are those of the author, Jamie McKenzie. They are meant to stimulate thought and inquiry about issues and trends, but they do contain some speculation and projection about the future.