One thing is certain:  the public library, along with all things we know and love, will change. But as PropellerHeads often profess, change is not always a bad thing.

Do you remember your first visit to your local public library as a child? Strangely, I do. While there are many similarities with today’s libraries – books, periodicals, magazines and such – there are obvious, visible changes. As an example, the infamous card catalog that used to be the predominant feature of every library has been replaced with computers, which along with helpful librarians will assist you in finding whatever you need.

The public library is an American invention. Although there is some debate, the first one was likely founded in Boston, MA back in 1848. Since that time, the public library system has grown and expanded not only in the US, but throughout the world with the stated purpose of providing free information and resources to educate the public.

According to Carol Brey Casiano, past president of the American Library Association (www.ala.org), “Libraries are an indispensable resource for Americans seeking information … Visits to public libraries have more than doubled to 1.2 billion annually in the past 12 years”.

But funding for libraries comes largely from local governments. With budget concerns, many localities are feeling the crunch. Some libraries have closed, and many have had to cut back hours of operation, and reduce services to stay viable.

Thankfully, the need for public libraries has caught the attention of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (www.gatesfoundation.org). Their organization is attempting to grow global libraries with the purpose of providing free public access to computers and the Internet to reach people worldwide.

While books are still the primary focus of the library, the growth potential is through providing Internet, workstations, and trained librarians to give the public the tools needed to succeed in school and life.

Even libraries now offer electronic books. But if you’re like me, e-books just don’t give the same feeling that grabbing a dusty tome and settling back for a good read gives. Heck, I don’t even mind blowing a little dust off … it just reminds me of home.

For more information on the future of public libraries, go to http://www.ifla.org/IV/ifla61/61-batc.htm. Better yet, pay a visit to your local public library and show your support. Oh … don’t forget to pay those late fees; the library is counting on you to ensure its future.