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| The Public Library as an Information Center |
The rapid development of the new media has led to an explosive increase in available information. Today the Internet gives you access to information and databases that were once difficult to get at in print and were often very costly.
Austria's public libraries have responded to these changes in a quick and efficient way. The traditional library is becoming a modern information, communication and technology center. The on-line services of the Austrian library association - most notably the BIBLIOTHEKEN ONLINE project - and of the Österreichisches BibliotheksWerk today offer access to the media and information for and on libraries per mouse click.
The crucial challenge facing Austrian libraries in the age of information is ensuring equal access to information. Since the new media also require new cultural and reception techniques it is necessary that the libraries be equipped with competent staff and modern technical equipment so as to be able to provide those access to the new communication and information media who would otherwise risk being excluded from the development.
The deluge of digital productions also entails the problem that the consumer be trained in research and selection so that he/she can find information in a targeted way. Here it is not just providing information that counts but also offering advice and assistance - a service that the staff of public libraries are able to give. The role as regional information center is also underscored by the fact that the libraries collect, process, file local information and publications and make these available to all.
The traditional off-line media should, however, not be neglected as a result of the focus on the new on-line media. That is to say: the demands made of librarian services and libraries have become greater. Whether these demands can actually be met in the long run largely depends on how well the libraries are furnished for the new tasks - through their technical equipment, opening hours and also through the qualification of their staff.
Public libraries ...
- ...as information and communication centers offer everyone access to communication and information
- ... assist the public in using the new media and offer competent support and advice
- ... create a balance between traditional media offerings and a range of new electronic media
- ... promote regional identity through collecting and processing local information that other centers and archives do not have access to.
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