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  • Essay / The Future of Public Libraries - 583

    Frail, Fatal, Fundamental: The Future of Public Libraries by Mark Norman examines the futurists' prediction about the future of public libraries and then compares it to his own opinions based on his role manages the library services of Rockdale Town Council. Norman's article draws on a number of articles written by futurists and their predictions about the future of public libraries, with a focus on how libraries must adapt their function perceived in the community to one where they provide valuable services to the modern community. Norman then likes to compare these futuristic predictions with his own “realistic” visions. Norman also addresses the “digital divide” and discusses the services and resources needed to bridge this divide. This review will examine Norman's discussions in relation to the digital and technological world facing public libraries in modern society. First, Norman makes a valid argument against Torrone's view that the majority of the public has the interest. Torrone states that “everyone already has access to the Internet”. Norman's view that Internet access is ...