Hyde Park Debate: The Traditional Research Library Is Dead

This presentation offers a debate on the proposition, “The traditional research library is dead.” Rick Anderson argues for the proposition, and Derek Law argues against it. The debate is conducted in general accordance with Oxford Union rules. All in the audience vote their opinion on the resolution before the debate begins, and the vote totals are recorded. Each speaker offers a formal opening statement, followed by a response to each other's statements, and then the floor is opened for discussion. At the conclusion of the debate, another vote is taken. The winner of the debate is the one who caused the most audience members to change their votes. Members of the audience have an opportunity to make comments and pose questions, as well. As with political discourse, this Oxford debate contains the normal mix of misleading facts, half-truths, and personal abuse. Additional misinformation from the audience is also encouraged.