Books, Libraries, and the Changing Digital Landscape

 Zickuhr, K. Books, libraries, and the changing digital landscape, Pew Internet & American Life Project,  October 12, 2013, http://www.pewinternet.org/2013/11/12/books-libraries-and-the-changing-digital-landscape/ , April 21, 2014. 43 pgs

Using quantitative phone surveys and qualitative online questionnaires Kathryn Zickuhr presents an eye opening presentation regarding the current trends in how libraries are changing in regards to the ever increasing digital world. After presenting a variety of statistics regarding patron's usage of digital sources, from online news sources to e-readers, it is concluded that libraries are still well used, but their constituents are changing their preferences of how to obtain information. It is suggested that libraries consider fewer traditional modes, such as paper books and periodicals. According to the presentation, they should focus on convenience and connections in "digital literacies" of social media, apps, and websites.

I found many interesting statistical details within this presentation that lead me to agree with the findings of the researcher. First of all, the way respondents receive their daily news is shifting. Online and Digital news sources have skyrocketed in the recent past while traditional newspaper, radio, and TV platforms have plummeted. It shows that users are turning to digital sources for their most essential and daily uses. Another statistic I found interesting is that while e-book reading is increasing, a majority of respondents still feel that reading a print book is more effective with children or when sharing with others. I find this to be true in my classroom. E-books have a smaller size and are harder to share with a group. Even though they are digital natives, children still like to sit with paper books and flip pages, admire pictures, and run their fingers over words as they decode the text. The tactile processing seems to be necessary from an observational standpoint.

The presentation concluded with information that shows that while libraries are still used a majority of the time for book browsing and information seeking, they must begin adapting to a new generation of users that are more comfortable with screens and keyboards than the Dewey Decimal system. A majority of respondents shared that they would be likely to use online research services, library apps, and tech try out programs if they were offered. These are some ideas that librarians could use to bring new technologies into a traditional system.

The presentation can be found at this link:

http://www.pewinternet.org/2013/11/12/books-libraries-and-the-changing-digital-landscape/


Pew Research total: 43/150                                                        Total to date: 123/150 pages