Banned Books

Banning books is a powerful tool with a full range of results. On one hand it can be very detrimental for those who could benefit from the information contained within, but on the other hand it can increase desirability to find the book through other means and read its contents. Based on the Harry Potter example provided in the presentation, there is a wide range of what people deem inappropriate. The claim that reading Harry Potter will increase the reader's desire to practice or learn about magic is not only dramatic, but a gross over action. Honestly, who cares if people get intrigued by a subject matter? Isn't that a good thing when done in a healthy way? Getting exited about a subject to the point where it increases reading is something that our society should encourage, not limit. If the criteria for what makes a good book is based solely on one limited group's opinion, I want no part of it and I will shout from the rafters, "I'll read what I want!"

Urban Public Libraries

The 'public-ness' of a library has evolved over time with relation to how the society in which it operates is functioning. Even today there are obvious discrepancies across the globe, but more specifically across the country that demonstrate this point. Depending on where a library is located, how public it is varies. Although on the surface a library that is technically open to the public may be advertised as such, there are often procedures that make it possible for library institutions to reduce the amount of foot traffic from worrisome patrons. The example that was most discussed was that of the homeless. Although I agree that there needs to be some safety procedures in place to account for a possible emergency situation, this can be argued with any demographic. People from all walks of life can be a potential threat and alienating homeless individuals does not solve the underlying problem of the gaping holes evident within many communities educational or social programs. Rather than ostracizing individuals, teach them.

One City One Book

One City One Book has the potential to provide wonderful opportunities for cities across the country. But, as those presenting this topic suggested, there are holes in the model that need to be adapted on a case by case basis. For example, while it was successful in Chicago, it was not as successful in New York. But is this statement even fully accurate? What the presentation made me remember is that success does not always appear in the way in which it was originally in tented. Although the original outcome of the project may have appeared more ideal in Chicago than New York, can't the fact that people made the attempt to integrate the program be measured as success in and of itself? Getting people to read is a powerful step and getting people to collaborate is another. If the end result is not in perfect sync with the One City One Book model, there is always room to try again and remake on the accomplishments that have been made for the greater good of reading, community, and awareness.

EBR - Electronic Book Reader

While I wouldn't go so far as to suggest that e-readers are good enough that we can get rid of regular/traditional books, I will say that they can provide a great deal of benefit. Granted, they are glitchy right now, but with improvement they can become a valuable asset that may appeal to a greater market of people. Right now, there are too many individuals who prefer the old-fashioned feel of a book and the 'perks' of the e-reader are not enough to give that up. Not to mention the hype and concern relating to those with disabilities and their access with e-reader devices. However, for those on the go and with little room to dedicate to a heavy volume of texts, e-readers all the way! Or not? As was discussed in the presentation of this topic, there is still much more that needs to be done to make e-readers as good as they can be. E-reader ink. Color vs. black and white. Screen lighting. Memory. Presentation. Interactive screen interface. More? I think so. Personally, I am going to hold out until the perfect model comes along, which may be awhile...possibly never.

witch-hunt

What happened to Ruth Brown was appropriately related to a 'witch-hunt within the book 'The Dismissal of Miss Ruth Brown. Although she had supporters and strong friends who stood by her side, those within her profession we not among them (77). Naomi Stocker Gordon, a former employee of Ruth's, became and advocate for Ruth Brown and her cause when she approached a New York lawyer and pleaded for him to take the case. Gordon became an example of what the library profession has now become. Fighting for the freedom of information and the protection of those who provide this information. However, the story of Ruth Brown goes even deeper than this by becoming symbolic of how an industry or a society greatly shapes how people react and what actions they take. Even in the discussion of Twentieth Century Fox and their reluctance to risk the wrath of HUAC there is further evidence of letting an injustice go untold rather than standing up the the powerful bullies on the corporate play ground. Ruth Brown's story provides great insight into not only a specific historical context, but into society itself.

who needs research? The future of the academic library

The future of the academic library is going digital. Traditional research methods are still employed as far as the requirement of credible sources, but now these very materials can often be accessed with the click of a mouse. The amount of preparation time for research has changed, but so has the type of preparation. Now, students need a computer to be part of the academic loop. Libraries are no longer limited to a paper card catalog in a large wooden cabinet in the corner. Resources are online and while original card catalogs still exist, they are outdated on multiple fronts. Many libraries no longer print cards for newer items and patrons rarely will use the card catalog to browse. Honestly, it takes too long. However, in this realm of fast paced information overload it is important for academic libraries to make sure they maintain the integrity of their sources. Yes the catalog and some journals are online, but don't forget about the good old fashioned book! There are benefits to reading on screen and off. The best student and the best academic library will provide both.

common..ity

Is using the library a privilege? As stated in 'The Library as Place,' the library has not always been public. The library, a once exclusive and limited facility in admittance, has evolved over time to fit the needs of its patrons. Thankfully, this has made libraries more of a center for educating those who decide to cross the threshold. Unfortunately, this does not always aid everyone who seeks the haven of library institutions. Individuals who have a limited education or resources may find it difficult to take full advantage of the all the services a library has to offer. This begs the question, are libraries still restrictive? Many would argue no, it's not. Rather it is a place for community where the individual entering becomes a part of something bigger, if only for a minute. But what if you can't enter under the identification of student, community member, house-wife, or businessman? Can a homeless person be a part of the larger library community? The community where all other identities fall away and everyone is just a member of the library...