Quick Summation of Library History

"Libraries" authored by Christine Pawley in 2001
In this reading, we are taken through a rapid summation of library history. This reading led me to consider, in public libraries in particular, the question of whether or not we are alienating certain library users by pushing foreward with increasing information technologies. Although providing access and instruction in computer literacy is much needed and necessary to keeping up with a rapidly changing society, especially in the public libraries, I fear that we may be leaving some of our patrons behind.
It is stated on pg. 8808 of this reading that "The digital environment is also transforming reference (the personal assistance provided by librarians). Traditional walk-in reference, long augmented by telephone service, is now supplemented, and sometimes replaced, by email and web-based reference, thus reducing services to those without computers." This statement addresses the concerns of the the patron at home but I think it also says a lot about the idea of personal contact between patron and librarian.
In my opinion, one of the major jobs of a librarian is to make patrons feel welcome, and to feel comfortable in this environment, many of these individuals may need more face to face contact. If they do not feel that they are recieving the help that they need or do not feel comfortable in a certain environment, they may not bother to ask those important and tough questions that they need to ask to get started in this sometimes scary new world. We need to be concerned about the problems associated with taking away that interpersonal connection that so many patrons need to feel open to addressing their concerns with their lack of skill in this new computerized world. What I am saying is that we need to keep in mind that although these new technologies are wonderful and will improve our lives, our patrons may feel that they are being left behind and we need to keep lots of human help on hand, in person to ensure that all patrons are attended to in a meaninful way.
Later in this same reading, reference is made to "library access to print as essential to an informed citizenry," and the collection of both what are considered to be 'high' and 'low' cultural items. I bet you know what I am going to type here next because by this point, it is obvious that I am a proponent of equal information available to all persons regardless of race, sex, gender, age or socio-economic status, (as I am sure we all are). We need to ensure that especially in our public libraries, everyone has access to as many different kinds of information resources as possible, financially speaking whether they are considered to be 'high' or 'low'. If books are purchases on 15th century renaissance painting, lets make sure that equal attention is paid to items and databases supporting urban graffiti movements or folk art. In these public institutions, we need to ensure that everyone is represented.