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From pulp to pixels, libraries evolve

Middletown and Lane libraries seeking 0.75-mill levies on May 4.

Will Internet make libraries obsolete?

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By Ryan Gauthier, Staff Writer Updated 8:55 AM Monday, April 19, 2010

MIDDLETOWN — Libraries have always been about “leveling the playing field,” according to Middletown Public Library Director Doug Bean.

“I see them as everyone’s university,” Bean said. “It’s a space committed to lifelong learning that’s open to everyone free of charge.”

Combined, the Middletown Public Library and Lane Public Library systems have been in operation for more than two centuries. Over the years, they have altered course multiple times in a variety of dramatic ways. Originally dealing in books and information, their role has shifted to include providing music, movies and Internet access to citizens free of charge.

With both systems going after 0.75-mill operating levies on the May 4 ballot — a first in the history of both Lane and Middletown — library leaders are asking taxpayers to help them overcome budget cuts and continue evolving to suit society’s constantly changing demands.

Becky McQuade, technical services manager with the Middletown Public Library, said some people are confused when they see video games and movies offered by an organization they traditionally perceive as educating the populace.

“In fact, libraries used to provide books as a form of entertainment,” McQuade said. “We still offer books as a form of entertainment, but we have started to provide other materials as well.”

Lane Libraries’ purpose has also expanded since its inception in 1866, according to Director Mary Pat Essman. On a per-hour basis, every one of the system’s locations is busier than it ever has been before.

“We’re finding there’s still a greet need for accessing information,” Essman said. “Whether for self-help, reading for entertainment or listening for entertainment, where we came from has broadened and I believe we’ll continue seeing that broaden.”

Essman fully believes digital distribution is the next frontier for libraries, allowing customers to log in with their library card using an iPad or Amazon Kindle and download books free of charge. The same process will likely happen with DVDs and music, she said, in many instances making it possible for customers to get what they are looking for without actually setting foot in a brick and mortar library.

Bean agrees the next step for libraries is distributing content directly to customers’ e-readers, but also said he would like to offer high-definition movies.

“We don’t really want to hold out carrots for people, but certainly progress is part of our culture when it comes to information,” Bean said.

While he can not imagine a world without libraries, Bean said he is not sure what the library of the future will look like.

“Whether it is pulp or electronic, I think we’ll still be offering information to people,” he said. “I think the Web and digital information is being incorporated into every aspect of our lives, and I believe libraries will embrace them moving forward.”

Nor does Essman think going digital will be the death knell of libraries. Whether it is to bring their kids to story time or participate in a book club, she said customers will continue to use the buildings as a quasi community center.

“Everybody is not going to want to do things solely online,” she said. “I believe people want to talk face-to-face. Even looking for a book online can be challenging if you don’t have a set direction, as you can’t page through it to see if it’s something you might be interested in.”

Considering the Hamilton Lane Library is still drawing thousands of customers daily to the same building that once had gas lights, Essman said she cannot imagine a day when there aren’t people waiting for its doors to open.

“We have more people coming to that building per hour now than ever before,” she said. “It’s all about access to information and people.”

Contact this reporter at (513) 705-2871 or at rgauthier@coxohio.com.

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