Recently, while tinkering with a 3D printer for loan to STLS member libraries, I had two epiphanies. One was reaching the “sweet spot” with the calibration of the printer to achieve a consistent print. The other had to do with the role of technology within public libraries.
I think the first thing to note is that usually when we speak of technology, we actually mean digital technology (computerized). Although technology has existed long before the advent of the digital computer (e.g., the printed book), it is quite apparent that digital technology is playing an ever increasing role within other technologies and our lives as a whole.
In my experience, when people are presented with technology, they often react to it one of two ways. Either they are adverse to it, or they view it as some type of “silver bullet”. I think the correct approach is to focus on how the technology will benefit people. This manifests itself in many ways within libraries, for example, connecting “people” to content (both digital and print) through STARCat and the digital catalog, informing “people” of library events (through library websites and email campaigns), challenging “people” to think outside the box and be creative (e.g., 3D printing) and allowing “people” to share their thoughts and ideas (e.g., via the library’s Facebook page).
How do you leverage technology to benefit your library users?
Related Article: http://americanlibrariesmagazine.org/2016/01/04/libraries-right-technology/
