Libraries in the Digital Age

Libraries in the Digital Age

By Delyssa Story

It seems like every week there is a new technology released or innovation to learn about. Many would wonder how libraries will ever keep up in a continuously changing world. One thing that is true of libraries is they have "endured for centuries because each generation has reshaped the library in its own image" (der Weduwen and Pettegree). Libraries have evolved over time to continuously meet the needs of their communities, and this continues to be true in the digital age.

Libraries are so much more than the books on their shelves, and have transformed into community hubs, with meeting spaces and computers available for patrons to use. At the core, libraries “collect and connect communities to information, ideas and each other” (National Library Week). One way they accomplish this is by bridging the digital divide and providing patrons with access to computers and the internet. Additionally, many libraries offer makerspaces which include specialized tools such as 3-D printers and Cricut machines to allow for creativity and innovation. Across San Diego County, libraries offer drop in tech visits, as well as specific programing to teach patrons about using various software and technologies. By offering such tools and services, patrons are able to keep up with the ever changing digital age.

If you want to learn more about how libraries can support digital literacy, check out the following LibGuide with many resources tor supporting digital skills: 

Digital Skills LibGuide by Four County Library System

 

Works Cited

der Weduwen, Arthur, and Andrew Pettegree. “Libraries Will Survive in a Digital Age. Here’s Why.” The Washington Post, 19 Oct. 2021, https://www.washingtonpost.com/outlook/2021/10/19/libraries-will-survive-digital-age-heres-why/

“National Library Week Highlights The Role of Libraries in our Digital Age.” Pressreader, 7 Apr. 2025, https://blog.pressreader.com/libraries-institutions/national-library-week-highlights-the-role-of-libraries-in-our-digital-age