Libraries and the global informatization: Transformation problems

Abstract

The author examines the problem of transformation of libraries as a social institution; changing functions in the circumstances of society informatization; chances for library’s keeping its social mission when changing functionality; social and ethical aspects of changes in libraries. Positive and negative aspects of such events as Biblionight and similar, are highlighted. The author argues that the digital epoch could not wipe out the book culture but it has transformed it and provided new opportunities for development. She also focuses on training librarians and current problems of the profession. The quality of education must be measured by actual competences of the alumni rather than the set of continuously changing standards and newly invented competences. To fill the gap between theory and practice, internships in the best libraries, master classes delivered by library experts, their enrollment in teaching library disciplines, introduction to technological novelties at the universities’ libraries will help. She also argues that, instead of spontaneous optimization, the libraries need a structured strategy of development while preserving all the best experience.