Since I've moved to Saskatoon, I've mostly been using the Frances Morrison Branch of the Saskatoon Public Library system (their main library branch, located downtown) for when I feel like borrowing books/movies or just going to hang out in the YA section to study.
I recently "liked" SPL on Facebook and have noticed that they keep a very up-do-date online presence. They average from 3 - 5 status updates a day on their library programs, current news issues and visiting authors. (Regina Public Library averages about 1-2 updates a day, but have more followers)
Libraries are always adapting, and seem to have well adapted to our "social networking" future. Something interesting that SPL is currently using is the "library2go" program, where you can download eBooks and audiobooks with your library card on an appropriate electronic device (eBook reader, smart phones, ipad, desktop, mac).
One of the biggest issues I see with the Frances Morrison branch, is that they are badly in need of a new building and have been fighting for a long time to get it. Their building is too small and too old to contain their collection and they do not have enough public support to even be able to bring this issue on the table (although they have tried many times).
In my Library and Information Technology program, I have learnt the past history of their struggle to get a new building or renovate and they seem to be stuck in a standstill. Either they have suffered from poor planning (I doubt that, these are library people) or roadblocks put in place by government and/or the public.
We, as an informed public, need to support our libraries if we want future generations to view the library as a safe, fun and interesting place to be.
Here are two documents made in 2004 (old, I know) about a Needs Assessment Survey done for SPL by Fast Consulting.
No comments:
Post a Comment