Libraries, Community, and Technology

Library Journal

In these 15 essays, Barnett (assistant director, McMillan Memorial Lib., Wisconsin Rapids) takes a provocative look at the relationships among libraries, their communities, and the technology that has become so prevalent today. Among the ideas he discusses are how business management principles can work well in a not-for-profit setting; "give them (patrons) want they want" is a primary responsibility of a public library; and technology is in and of itself an end rather than a means. Arguing that while many changes have occurred and will continue to occur in public libraries, the institution's fundamental role remains the same-to help shape a community's cultural life by serving as an educational resource-Barnett asserts it is that commitment that those who choose this form of public service need to reaffirm. "There is no other career that so combines and supports core American values such as self-improvement, equality of opportunity, rugged individualism, the building of community, and the importance of an educated citizenry.... Librarianship is not a job or a career path, but a vocation, a road to be followed for the good of others." For your own well-being and that of your library, read this book!-B. Susan Brown, Pamunkey Regional Lib., Hanover, VA