Wednesday, August 01, 2007

the library vs. the bookstore

I am learning a lot about merchandising in libraries and how libraries will be more effective operating like a bookstore with displays, layout, coffee shops, and the other hallmarks of bookstores in the 21st century. I can see the reasoning, as a librarian wanting to ensure the future of the library, but I struggle with the idea becoming exactly like bookstores. There are philosophical issues with which I will not bore you, but it doesn't really sit right with me that there are libraries that you can't tell apart from your local Chapters/Indigo. I never thought I would come up against so much conflict in my training as a librarian, but I am continually confronted with issues where I have to choose sides. I think there are going to continue to be so many changes in the librarian profession--at least I will not be bored...

1 comment:

Jess said...

What do you do when patrons demand the latest books now and are unwilling to wait the months it can take to get a copy of HP7?

I don't like it either. Worse for me is the library becoming Blockbuster...