What will library services look like in 10 years? Definitely different than today in ways I probably can't anticipate. The changes I have already experienced have been spectacular.
I started my library career about 20 years ago. Not one single computer in the building. Stamping due dates on book cards. Filing cards and counting statistics by hand. Hand-writing overdue notices. Filmstrips. Phonograph records. Calling between branches to look for items requested. A microfiche catalog.
In 1997, staff had Internet access at a few computers. A CD-ROM catalog inhouse for customers. An automated circulation system on dumb terminals. Audiotapes. Videos. Receipt printers. Still calling between branches for requests, but the automated system gave guidance. A good print reference collection.
In 2007, computers everywhere for staff and customers with Internet access for all. Holds placed online by customers. Self-service pickup of holds. Self checkout of items. DVDs, CDs, downloadable audio. E-books. E-branch services available 24/7, including online databases. New libraries are more spacious, more comfortable.
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When I was promoting iHCPL I noted that when I received my MLS in 1971 customers and staff pretty much knew all about the technology libraries used. Now our customers often know more than we do or have an expectation that we are familiar enough with all these new tools to help them.
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