Good libraries are expensive libraries?

Abstract

Purpose

The ideas surrounding which institutional attributes make for good libraries vary radically based on patron review, professional association rankings, size of overall collections, and other measures. The purpose of this article is to provide insight into argumentation for establishing how libraries gain the compliment of “good” in an increasingly digital age.

Design/methodology/approach

An analysis of the general effect digital content available on the internet has on the mind of the consumer frames the debate on how libraries can be seen as both relevant and good for their communities despite being expensive.

Findings

Library leaders always need to advocate for their services and collections, but it is only through true reflective discourse with key stakeholders and governing bodies that enlightenment on the key advantages of libraries can be found.

Originality/value

Library popularity and use rises and falls solely based on the conscious user evaluation of collections and services. Focusing this consciousness away from the myth that all material of worth is digital and available online is the key to helping users and governing bodies understand that investments in library infrastructure, technology and (most importantly) raw collections is what makes libraries good for all.

Citation

Cottrell, T. (2013), "Good libraries are expensive libraries?", The Bottom Line, Vol. 26 No. 2, pp. 47-51. https://doi.org/10.1108/BL-04-2013-0009