The Future of UK Libraries? Quite a Question
July 16, 2024
Librarians pride themselves on their knowledge of resources and literature. Most are eager to lend their expertise to help patrons find, use, and even understand the information they want or need. Checking out books is perhaps the least valuable part of their job but, to some UK bean counters, that is the only part worth keeping. Oh, and they don’t really need humans for that. Just cameras and smartcards. The Guardian ponders, “End of the Librarian? Council Cuts and New Tech Push Profession to the Brink.” Reporter Jon Ungoed-Thomas writes:
“Officials in some local authorities are proposing that libraries can be operated at times without any professional librarians, relying on self-service technology, smartcards for entry and CCTV. This has been criticized as a ‘mad idea’, limiting access to librarians’ advice and expertise for the young, vulnerable and many elderly people. Buckinghamshire council outlined plans at a cabinet meeting in June to save about £550,000 a year and reduce staffed hours by up to 30% with the technology. Library users with smartcards will be monitored by CCTV to ensure people do not ‘tailgate’ into the buildings.”
The libraries in London that have already moved to the self-service model, however, have had some challenges. For one thing, they are unavailable to anyone without a library card and those under 16 unless accompanied by an adult. They also decided they should really invest in a (human) security guard in case of emergency. Besides, as of yet, patrons have been slow to embrace change.
Advocates for swapping the reassuring warmth of erudite humans with lifeless self-serve kiosks claim certain benefits. The change could increase libraries’ operating hours by up to 50%, they say, and could save floundering locations from closing altogether. It could also reduce staffing by up to 40%. But many see that point as a net negative. For example, we learn:
“Laura Swaffield, chair of the charity The Library Campaign, which supports library users’ and friends’ groups, said libraries were under attack in many parts of the country. ‘Libraries have a wider role as community resources. We oppose self-service technology where it is being used as a means of leaving libraries unstaffed. If you just want to pick up some light reading, or you know how to use the computer, that’s fine. Many people need far more than this. The library is the most accessible front door to a whole range of information and support.’”
Indeed. Perhaps some nice librarians could point council members to resources that would help them understand that.
Cynthia Murrell, July 16, 2024
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