Reading Assignment #1

Before I read this article I had not realized how large of a role libraries played through out time. Libraries were originally created as an archive of manuscripts, art, and important documents. Libraries are so important because they contain the foundational building blocks for all of humanity. During the medieval times, books were very expensive because the printing press had not yet been invented. This made libraries not only archives but a collection of lecterns with books chained to them. Then the printing press was invented and it out over 500,000 books into circulation by 1500. This invention created a higher demand for books and libraries. The combination of the printing press and Andrew Carnegie's funding for 2,509 libraries caused a huge turning point in the evolution of libraries. We have evolved from a time when information was scarce and precious to today were information is vast a readily available. Because there is so much information available today we keep striving for the latest, most technologically efficient way to store all of this info. Libraries are constantly evolving to keep up with the latest technology. Not only do they have to keep up with the new technology that emerges every month but they also have to dispose of out dated technology as well. As time goes on newer and better technology will be created and will replace older technology. We are now in the process of replacing CD's with digital devices. Since technological breakthroughs occur so often we barley even notice them. Many people don't realize how these breakthroughs are changing the world. This technological rampage that we are on is creating a more globalized world. Soon we will be in a new era of global systems. We will have a global tax code, global currency, global ethics standards, etc. This will force libraries to transition from centers of information to centers of culture. Libraries will be an experience/culture based and will include museums, theaters, parks, and educational institutions. Libraries will be one of the few technological concepts to not be replaced.