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RISING TO THE CHALLENGE: PLATFORM

The library platform in the 21st century is probably the most profound idea from the Aspen Report. It represents a fundamental change in the way we, as a society, encounter information and how we view libraries.  No longer will libraries be warehouses of books but they will curate information during times of quick technological change and make it accessible to all people in their communities (Garmer, 2014).

 

In the past, libraries were "lenders" of information.  In the past, a customer might ask a question and the librarian would then give that customer selected information from books and databases to answer the question. In the past, the customer relied on the librarian to know where to look and know how to find the answers. In the past, the library catalog was the platform (Garmer, 2014).

 

In the future, libraries will continue to be trusted to be objective and operate in the interests of their users. In the future, libraries will become a hub of learning and community connections where life-long learners will encounter information serendipitously and then use that information to create something new . In the future, libraries will be "third places" which will house many individuals and groups operating together or independently who will have access to abundant WiFi and new technologies (Garmer, 2014). 

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EPL epitomizes the idea of a new library platform in the planning and construction of their flagship Stanley A. Milner branch which is scheduled to open in 2020. 

 

The new building will include:

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  • enlarged Makerspace that will include cutting-edge technologies

  • more quite study space

  • new community meeting spaces to support the need for community collaboration and spaces accessible to all Edmontonians

  • high-tech accessible theater to support speakers and performers

  • larger Children's Library with hands-on STEM equipment and play spaces

  • space for "embedded partners" which are community organizations that provide complementary services

  • interactive simulation wall for multi-media presentations and hands-on learning ("Make It Possible", n.d.).

 

EPL's commitment to providing a platform for information doesn't stop at the Milner Branch:​

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  • In 2016, Edmonton Public Library began a two year pilot hotspot lending program to bring internet access to those who do not have a home internet connection.  The 40 hotspots came with unlimited data plans and could be borrowed for three weeks at a time. (Lamoureux, 2016). While the pilot program is being evaluated, hotspot lending continues. Assuming that someone who does not have internet access at home probably doesn't have a computer, Chromebooks are now available for check out with the hotspots (C. Munro, personal communication, April 19, 2018).

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  • With input from the Edmonton music community, EPL curated content at Capital City Records which is EPL's first digital public space.  Local musicians can add their music to the database which is then available for streaming.  An entire collection of "gig posters" that date all the way back to the 1970's can be viewed. This database not only provides access to local music but creates a historical record unique to Edmonton ("Capital City Records", n.d.).

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  • Similarly, Capital City Press, provides a digital and physical space for local authors to share their works. It is a place where Edmontonians can discover and learn from established local authors ("Introducing Capital City Press", n.d.)

Review the CONCLUSIONS of this report for suggestions for further improvement.

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