Detailed Instructions:
1. Research the topic given using a range of sources. These sources will include information found using the TAFE Queensland library website; internet and databases; peer reviewed articles such as on LISTA, Academic Search Complete, Australian and New Zealand Reference Centre (ANZRC); readings and podcast provided on Connect. Note that you must research and post on the first topic before moving on to research the second topic.
- Post a short summary including your own opinions, plus at least two (2) references (using APA style of referencing), for each topic under the appropriate Thread in the Discussion Board. Copy and paste your posts into the section provided below.
- Historical development, emerging issues, trends and / or emerging technologies.
- Impact on current library practices and on library staff
2. Make at least two (2) substantial responses on someone else’s posts (not the same one repeated) for each topic. Your two responses must be a response to each of the different categories, one response to “Historical development, emerging issues, trends and/or emerging technologies” and one response on “Impact on current library practices and on library staff”.
Please note – do not start a new thread each time you reply or contribute to the thread. Once a new thread has been created, you need to reply to the thread by:
- First, adding your answer to the thread created under each topic
- Second, responding to another student’s thread.
Specific topics to target in your research:
Topic 1. Emerging Issues, Trends, and/or Emerging Technologies
Now that you have completed some background reading and listening into emerging issues, trends, and emerging technologies, outline some significant historical development in the library industry, and identify and discuss related major library trends, issues and technology developments.
Select one topic from the list below to research and discuss:
- Historical development of libraries
- Libraries as a “place” in the community
- Library’s role in literacy & reading, may include historical development in the community
- Trend to e-resources across libraries and Information Organisations
- Collaboration or convergence between libraries and wider Information Organisations
- Community engagement and the implementation of creative and / or community spaces in libraries e.g. Makerspaces
Topic 2. Impact on current library practices and on library staff
Follow on from topic one (1), now discuss the impact and opportunities you think it/they will have or are having on libraries, that is, whether this change has an impact on current library practices and on library staff.
Select one topic from the list below to research and discuss:
- Significant advances in technology and increasing costs of journals and other print resources – massive growth in electronic services
- Open Access – its merits, issues and application
- Security of digital information in library industries (malware/ viruses etc.)
- Application of current and emerging technologies in libraries – eBooks, tablets, digital technologies
- Budgetary manoeuvres – eg staffing pared down to essential levels so that infrastructure services may be developed
- Decreasing numbers of library visitors. Reduced coverage of service points, sustaining basic services whilst offering extended electronic access
- Outsourcing – argument for a more cost effective system
