The New American Library Technological, educational and social changes are redefining traditional roles John W. Focke, FAIA Our libraries are fast becoming sophisticated communication centers. The newly transformed libraries across the United States will continue to hold stacks of familiar books, but the difference will be in how books stand alongside new technologies and electronic resources. U.S. libraries that have attempted to eliminate books have been forced to return them to the shelves. It is a fact that both books and technology are expanding, not shrinking.
Technology changes the way people interact and learn.
Soon, the library will serve as both a social and educational destination for people of all ages, cultures, and socioeconomic levels. Considering that 95 percent of libraries that will exist on day one of the 21st century have already been built, most facilities will experience problems in accommodating these new technology demands. They simply aren't equipped to handle the needed changes. Today, the role of the library in American society is changing to reflect the advent of computers and other electronic information technologies in our schools, businesses and homes. In progressive communities throughout Texas and across the country, libraries are using sophisticated architecture, technology and marketing savvy to attract new patrons.