ARE YOU
WONDERING whether “real” books will soon be relics?
…that we will be relegated to squinting at tiny electronic devices,
unable to read without electric help? …that future libraries will
provide only computers?
The Pew Research
Center’s recent Internet & American Life Project tells us that
while “many library patrons are eager to see libraries’ digital
services expand, [they] also feel that print books remain important
in the digital age.”
Libraries are
grappling with the need to provide digital services while meeting the
needs of patrons who may not be techno-savvy or may lack the means to
own the latest devices. As co-author of the Pew report Kathryn
Zickuhr noted, “While many patrons appreciate being able to access
new digital resources at libraries, they also say they value having
print books and other traditional resources at libraries and still
want a personal connection with library staff." Learn more at http://libraries.pewinternet.org.
In renovations and new
buildings, library design contains best forecasts of what will be
needed and wanted by library patrons. As Reston Regional moves
toward a new phase, NOW is the time for public input. Just as the
Friends need adequate space for sorting and accumulating materials
for sales (continuing financial aid to the library!), so public
meeting space, the balance of digital and printed matter, and
learning aids all are factors. What should your library provide?
Let us know your thoughts!
PERHAPS
YOU SAW the Washington Post story in December, on the Nov.
26 passing of Jacques Morgan, outspoken contrarian owner of Idle Time
Books in Adams Morgan. He was a regular at our book sales,
distinctive with his long ponytail and thick mustache. The Friends
offer condolences to his wife Val. The Post quotes her as saying,
“He did everything he wanted in life. He never went for a job
interview. He never had to get dressed up for work. That’s a
lucky man.”
NEW
OFFERINGS at the Fairfax County Public Library include Dan
Brown’s latest, Inferno: A Novel; Gillian Flynn’s Gone
Girl and Ayana Mathis’ The Twelve Tribes of Hattie (both
in Large Print); and a new edition of Paul Tillich’s The Courage
to Be.
A BEST
OF RESTON award goes to Friends of the Reston Regional
Library for 2013! Thanks to the many volunteers over the years who
made it possible for us to be recognized in this year’s Civic group
category. Reston Interfaith sponsors a gala on April 11 to present
the awards to groups and individuals.
NOTE
UPCOMING USED BOOK SALES—
Mystery mini-sale
Thurs Feb 7- Mon Feb 11
Children’s and Teen
sales Thurs Mar 14- Sun Mar 17
Big Spring Sale –
late April
SEE YOU
AT THE LIBRARY!
