Libraries

Libraries have been an important public resource for centuries. In addition to traditional print resources, modern libraries also contain digital resources, such as cassette tapes and CD-ROMS.

Content Jump

  1. Libraries in the digital age
  2. Advantages
  3. Disadvantages
  4. Bibliography
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Libraries in the digital age

Libraries continue to serve a vital function in society – providing information freely to the public. The role of libraries has expanded from merely providing print resources, such as books, to providing digital resources that are now ubiquitous in everyday life. Often, libraries provide not only academic resources, but also entertainment media such as movies.

All around the world, digital and media resources are increasingly becoming a standard component of libraries; this provides an excellent alternative to copyright infringement.


The Library @ Esplanade, an example of a boutique library. [Picture credit: kairin from flickr. Licensed under CC by-nc-nd 2.0]

The Singapore National Library Board (NLB), for example, has introduced the concept of “boutique libraries”, which are aim to focus on a certain niche groups. An example would be The Library@Esplanade, which specializes in the performing arts, and provides a huge repository of digital media on this area. Excellent screening facilities are also provided, such as soundproof rooms with first-rate sound systems. The British Library has taken this concept one step further, and operates an online shop selling various digital media, such as CDs and DVDs.

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Advantages

Libraries offer resources to the public at low, if not no cost, hence making such information and resources available to all. In addition, materials provided by libraries are often originals, meaning that quality is excellent.

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Disadvantages

Digital libraries, while increasingly common in the developed world, are a rarity in the developing world, due to the high costs associated with maintaining such libraries. This makes it difficult for consumers living in the developing world to benefit from such a resource.

In addition, the latest movies and music might not be available in libraries immediately upon release. The long waiting queue for popular items at libraries, which often only acquire limited copies of copyrighted works regardless of popularity, might also put people off.