Session Number
12
Description
Three main periods of library and information work are identified. The first is the custodial or conservation period when the librarian saw his responsibilities mainly as a collector. The second has been a period of a more active and dynamic concept of service which has developed over the last thirty-five years both stimulating and being stimulated by the advances of electronic systems. Lastly a future period is outlined where, in view of the technological growth in this area, the library will become an information source. Probable new information sources are outlined. Will the library adopt the role of exploiter of these new developments or will alternative services or even the user himself take over?
Third Wave of Library and Information Work
Three main periods of library and information work are identified. The first is the custodial or conservation period when the librarian saw his responsibilities mainly as a collector. The second has been a period of a more active and dynamic concept of service which has developed over the last thirty-five years both stimulating and being stimulated by the advances of electronic systems. Lastly a future period is outlined where, in view of the technological growth in this area, the library will become an information source. Probable new information sources are outlined. Will the library adopt the role of exploiter of these new developments or will alternative services or even the user himself take over?