The Changing Role of the Library in the Digital Age

The visit to the Chicago public library was an eye opener for me as the shift in role of a library is evident through its well thought spaces and the harnessing of technology to engage people in continual learning.

The main function of the library is no longer just to house hardcopy books. It has shifted from being a gatekeeper of information to a hub that facilitates the co-creation of knowledge that spans the physical, conceptual and digital worlds.


The maker Lab is an amazing place where ideas are experimented, explored and actualized.


The Coolest thing about this space is the flexibility of choice to work at your own to deepen your interest area or sign up for classes offered to learn a new field. Independent individuals can seek help from the friendly staff on duty for assistance as well as refer to the handouts that are readily available. Coupled with trendy equipments such as the 3D printer, thought-provoking prints mounted on the wall and displays of the prototypes that inspires ideas and possibilities, this is indeed a place where innovation happens, as its title appropriately suggests.

The Youmedia is another space in the library that defines how learning breaks tradition. I could see that the youths are motivated and engaged in what they are doing at various corners that are designed for different purposes. Its amazing to note that while there are no concrete walls within to divide the space into various functions, there seems to be  'invisible' walls to facilitate learning...the youths are focused on what they have chosen to engaged themselves in the space without being distracted. i.e. performance, reading, gaming are simultaneously happening. 

These are perhaps good models of how classrooms of today should be designed and operates. I envisage every classroom to be a learning lab with specialized corners that encourages curiosity and creativity through independent learning and collaborate sharing so as to develop in students the knowledge and skills to thrive in the 21^st century. Schools designed to house learning spaces that makes learning fun, relevant and a lifestyle!