Libraries: Then & Now

Card catalogs 

People of a certain age may remember learning to use card catalogs to navigate the Dewey Decimal System and locate relevant books on their library shelves. That system worked well for more than a century, with little changing other than the switch from handwritten to typed information. 

Digital catalogs accessible from anywhere 

While many libraries still use the Dewey Decimal System to organize books by topic and title, the card catalogs may only exist as a backup. Cloud-based search catalogs make it quick and easy to search for books and more from anywhere in the world. 

Hard copy books and journals for research

As recently as the 1990s, libraries spent about $2,433,573 on journal subscriptions, most of which were physical copies. They also spent $95,366 on commercial print journal bindings.

Millions of resources online 

Today, libraries spend even more on journal subscriptions at around $6,166,987, but virtually all of those resources are digital. The amount that libraries budget for physical journal bindings plummeted to $8,250. 

Physical archives 

Libraries held millions of books, audio files, videos and other forms of content in their archives.

Digitized collections 

Many institutions are digitizing their collections, protecting them for future generations and making them more widely accessible. Virtual visitors can use tools like captions and audio descriptions that provide inclusive audio and video experiences for those who are Deaf, hard of hearing, blind and others. 

Answering hundreds of questions (during open hours) 

The New York Public Library published some of the questions patrons asked from 1940 through the 1980s to highlight the versatility required from their librarians. Here are just a couple: 

What was the name of Napoleon’s horse? 

Can you help me find books on spontaneous human combustion? 

Responding to millions of queries, 24/7 

Librarians are still experts at answering versatile questions and respond to around 6.6 million a week in the US alone. In fact, some libraries, like the University of Washington’s, offer online 24/7 reference librarian support.

Spaces for quiet, solitary study 

Libraries offered stations for people to read in quiet, and noisy visitors may face a stern “shushing.”

Flexible spaces that promote collaboration 

50% of modern librarians favor flexible spaces. In most instances, this means room for groups to collaborate. 

In-person storytimes and lectures 

Librarians introduced children to literature and invited speakers to educate their local communities.

Virtual events on Zoom 

From small local branches to the Library of Congress, libraries are creating more online programming for children, adults and seniors. Webinars and Zoom events are helping provide another form of education for the public when they can’t attend in-person. Many libraries are offering inclusive access to these events by adding closed captions to support individuals who are Deaf, hard of hearing or cannot watch with the sound on.

Job search books and assistance

Libraries have helped millions of people search for jobs, including by providing books and resume writing support.  

Digital training and online career support 

96% of libraries offer online job search assistance. Not only do librarians still help people find jobs, but they also provide free digital literacy training that modern job seekers need. 

Then & Still

Free knowledge to level the playing field

Not everyone has a home library, and not everyone today owns a computer or tablet. Libraries still provide millions of people access to research tools and knowledge that can help them succeed — that should never change.

A safe space 

Libraries offer a safe and secure space for many students, elderly population, LGBTQ youths and others who need a welcoming, accessible environment to study or spend their time. 

Community hubs

Public libraries are a place to connect, learn and engage with members of their community. In fact, 85% of taxpayers believe that funds used to support their local libraries are dollars well-spent. Libraries will continue to hold events – both in-person and online – to engage the community through interesting and interactive experiences.