Abstract

Public libraries have been social since their inception (they were created to meet a social need), because of their nature (they exist to serve citizens and the society), their roles and objectives (to inform, to train, and to share, create and socialize knowledge), and the values [...]

Abstract

With the failure of school libraries in Spain and public libraries that are more targeted to adult patrons, it seems that the library authorities have forgotten about services to adolescents. The specific needs of young people aged between 14 and 18 years are not being met. It is [...]

Abstract

Results are presented of an online survey answered by 3,453 libraries in 63 countries between 14 November 2015 and 21 January 2016, based on their experiences with a total of 138 integrated library systems (ILS). The best products classified in the various categories analysed were [...]

Abstract

International and Spanish scholarship on the social role of libraries for people at a social disadvantage are summarized. Current initiatives in public libraries in Spain are presented along with an analysis of some of the library services that have been developed, including an example [...]

Abstract

An analysis of how libraries curate content in social media platforms is discussed. The social media platforms that are analyzed are include Scoop.it, Paper.li, Flipboard, Storify, Milq, List.ly, Facebook, and Twitter; numerous examples are provided.

Abstract

Results are presented of an online survey answered by 4,042 libraries in 92 countries between November 3rd 2015 and January 18th 2017, based on their experiences with a total of 138 integrated library systems (ILS), both commercial and open source. The best products classified in [...]

Abstract

The paper focuses on the role of public libraries as a place to promote reading. It reflects upon how the changes in the world of books and reading, through the influence of technology, can affect the development of the traditional library function. Also the mediating role of the [...]

Abstract

Results are presented of an online survey answered by 3,992 libraries in 87 countries between November 2017 and February 2018, based on their experiences with a total of 127 integrated library systems (ILS), both commercial and open source. The best products classified in their respective [...]

Abstract

We describe how public funding for cultural and library services in Spain decreased in 2012. Therefore, we analyze the impact of this problem on library services, and explain some ways to reduce the damage, such as user contributions and crowdfunding (i.e., social microfinancing). [...]

Abstract

The increased impact of the economic crisis on public libraries in Spain is described. The aim is to draw attention to the problems that will arise by 2012 in library services, staff, collections, and cultural and educational programs. The policy of deficit reduction and budget control [...]