Isolation and the Digital Library

Maw, Laura 

LM

Mercer, N. (2020, April 9). Newfoundland libraries adapting to isolation world with move to digital. The Chronicle Herald. Retrieved from https://www.thechronicleherald.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-libraries-adapting-to-isolation-world-with-move-to-digital-435936/

This article highlights how a library information community has been able to maintain their meetings and access to information using their library’s digital services and collection. Through the Wine, Women and Words book club, the importance of the local library in helping people maintain social connections during the COVID-19 pandemic is demonstrated. It is interesting to learn that this information community’s library, the Newfoundland & Labrador Public Library, had been bolstering their digital services and collection months before the pandemic; the reason is the same, however, to combat community isolation, which had been brought on by a terrible snow storm. With the community isolation measures due to the pandemic, the library has been experiencing more applications for library cards. 

I expect as people struggle to maintain social connections and mental wellness during the COVID-19 pandemic, more people will turn to their libraries, increasing patronage and demand for virtual library services and electronic materials.

Digital Libraries Postive of Negative

Wilson, Shibrie

The Good News and the Bad News. (2015, May 24). Retrieved from http://lj.libraryjournal.com/blogs/annoyedlibrarian/2015/05/14/the-good-news-and-the-bad-news/

There is a constant debate amongst librarians regarding going digital. Many traditional librarians are opposed to materials being accessible to patrons digitally. The issue that some librarians prefer that patrons access library physically and not accessing just on website. Since libraries are constantly competing and defending its relevance we must continue to offer innovative content and materials for patrons. Individuals are seeking after materials in which they can access online without coming to a physical library. This article focuses on different arguments from across the board from those who fully support a digitized library. Some librarians are ready to change the stereotype associated with library of it being boring and just for purpose of "reading books." Libraries will continue to remain relevant due to preferences of different persons, according to article. 

Opinion:

I resonated with this article because it is frustrating to think about different aspects of library and where it will leave professionals. There are different aspect because as professionals we must continue to provide innovative ideas in order to compete with technology. Yet, downside to such is that it can possibly eliminate our jobs.