Libraries and community

Abstract:
Public libraries today face the challenge of educating and bridging the knowledge gaps of those patrons in their communities who have limited experience with information technology, and few related skills. Connecting people with information, fostering digital skills in the community, and enabling participation in online environments have become core functions of the library. These functions, which are lacking in other public and private spaces, are increasingly relied upon by library users to socialise, develop themselves and conduct their business.
 

Abstract:
Public libraries today face the challenge of educating and bridging the knowledge gaps of those patrons in their communities who have limited experience with information technology, and few related skills. Connecting people with information, fostering digital skills in the community, and enabling participation in online environments have become core functions of the library. These functions, which are lacking in other public and private spaces, are increasingly relied upon by library users to socialise, develop themselves and conduct their business.
 

ALIA National 2022 Conference, 16 May - 19 May 2022 Canberra: Diversity
 

ALIA Information Online 2015 Conference, 2-5 February 2015, Sydney: at the edge.
 

ALIA Information Online 2015 Conference, 2-5 February 2015, Sydney: at the edge.
 
Abstract:
 

ALIA Information Online 2015 Conference, 2-5 February 2015, Sydney: at the edge.
 
This conference presentation (PowerPoint slides) discusses the Media Lab digital creation space at the City of Gold Coast Libraries in 2013 and how the library's new site provided the potential for the new and engaging ways to build cultural community capacity.
 

ALIA Information Online 2015 Conference, 2-5 February 2015, Sydney: at the edge.
 
Abstract:
 
Introduction
 

[Peer reviewed] Abstract: The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic forced public library staff to rapidly rethink the services they offered as lockdown restrictions meant that libraries as social venues briefly came to an end. Online content was developed overnight to fill the void. This study examines the impact that the contactless operational model has had on library services across Australia, as seen through the eyes of eight public library staff. The qualitative study contributes in-depth data to scant literature about public libraries and the pandemic in an Australian context.

The Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) encourages library and information services professionals to promote and facilitate the development of their clients' information literacy skills.

Article by John Geijsman AALIA and Kirsty Lightfoot from INCITE May/June 2021 Volume 42 Issue 3 - Open Space.
 
This article discusses how libraries are connecting with their communities online with the development of a dedicated community Minecraft server.