Technology Can Help Libraries Remain Relevant

In today’s world, with its competing leisure activities, library systems need to actively work to maintain and enhance their relevance within the neighborhoods they serve. With the advent of the Internet and electronic books, libraries must adapt to remain what I call first-choice destinations for their communities.

Just one way in which the Baltimore County Public Library has chosen to do this was by unveiling a collection of Playaways, self-contained digital audio books, first at the branch in Perry Hall and then systemwide. Each Playaway contains one complete book and is quite portable. The device is thinner than a deck of cards. 

As it happens, BCPL is just one of about half of the public library systems nationwide to broaden their reach through this dynamic new medium. More than 6,500 book titles are currently available on Playaways for use in public library systems.

Very soon, BCPL will be one of the first library systems in the country to unveil the Playaway View, a portable device with a pre-loaded video. These hand-held devices will allow young children to watch quality children’s programs, such as Sesame Street, which can help them prepare for the adventure of learning to read.

Technology can also make it easier for residents of Perry Hall and other communities to use more traditional library services. For instance, self check-out allows library customers to spend less time actually getting their books and more time browsing the collection and finding just the right title to inspire their imaginations. Also, the ability to use the Internet to do research—with the help of BCPL’s comprehensive website—or to renew a borrowed book, saves time for everyone.

All libraries should be using technology to promote a love of books and reading. Whether a reader accesses a book by using a Playaway, downloading a book online, or using some other hi-tech tool, the promotion of reading endures. By going the extra mile to connect library patrons of all ages to books, the relevance of libraries and their attractiveness as first-choice destinations can only grow stronger over time.

Given the extent to which residents of our county patronize our library system, it is vital that the services are available at all of the branches. During these economically challenging times, communities nationwide rely upon their public libraries more than ever.

There are many reasons why BCPL now serves an increasing number of citizens.  As people become more concerned about their financial health, they seek low or no-cost entertainment. What better way to give yourself a break—free of charge—than to pick up a good book from your local library. 

Many families who opted to cancel their home Internet service as a cost-saving measure now rely on BCPL for access to a computer with a Web connection. Of course, as some residents of Baltimore County have become unemployed, many of them turn to BCPL and its caring, capable staff for assistance in job-search activities. 

Thankfully, as Baltimore  County residents have turned to their libraries, our local elected officials had the foresight to ensure sufficient funding to support this growth in usage. This recognition of the importance of libraries as an essential public service will allow BCPL to continue to effectively respond to the increasing needs of Baltimore County citizens. Moreover, with the great advances in technology that are now broadly accessible, it is certain that libraries will continue to be relevant and be equipped to serve the ever-increasing needs of those they serve.