Libraries are not obsolete Published April 15, 2010 By "Dixie" Linda Paronto 341st Force Support Squadron MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- As we celebrate the 52nd National Library Week this year, I hear comments almost daily that libraries are no longer needed because you can "find it on the Internet," or libraries are obsolete because "books will all be electronic one day." I am happy to report that libraries are NOT going away or at least not for a long time, yet. Libraries are doing what they have done for nearly 5000 years - CHANGE. From the first known libraries in ancient Mesopotamia with clay and papyrus scrolls, to the illustrated medieval manuscripts, to the Gutenberg printing press, to hand-held e-books, libraries have been adapting and changing with technology. Like people, libraries come in all shapes and sizes from the Library of Congress with its tens of thousands of books, to the totally digital university research library, to your local public library with a mix of books, electronic databases and audio/visual materials. The changes are not killing the library, but are actually expanding it. A library is no longer defined by its walls and what it can hold. Libraries are now 24/7 because of the electronic resources offered. Instead of offering a few hundred magazines, the library can subscribe to magazine and journal databases that allow patrons access to tens of thousands of full-text articles with the library's secret codes. The indexes are electronic, fast and have more comprehensive searches than using print hardbound indexes that take up acres of shelving. Patrons don't have to wait weeks for an article to be mailed to them once they find information in the index. Yes, you can find "it" on the Internet. But ask yourself first, is it reliable information? Is the information correct, or is it just someone's opinion? Anyonecan post anything on a Web site. According to Wikipedia, as of March 2009, the indexable Web contains at least 25.21 billion pages. In May 2009, it was reported there were 109.5 million Web sites in operation. And that number more than doubles each year. Libraries and librarians are in the forefront of sorting, organizing and indexing the Web. The library can subscribe to databases of e-books which allow access to hundreds of reference books, encyclopedias, almanacs, instruction manuals and other original source materials which the library could not afford to offer in print form. Libraries can also offer other services and materials available via the Internet free or at low cost, such as language learning programs, on-line tutoring and downloadable e-books and e-audiobooks. The library has many non-print materials available: movies on DVD or VHS, audio books on Playaways, CD or cassettes, and computers. In a recent study reported in the Seattle PI, a third of Americans use library computers. It was reported "a third of Americans 14 and older - about 77 million people - use public library computers to look for jobs, connect with friends, do their homework and improve their live." The public library will still provide many print books and materials. Children still learn best by touching and interacting with the physical book. Story times and summer reading programs will still be offered. The library, as a physical place, is still going strong. In fact, the public library has received attention as the "new front porch of the general store." Come visit your local "public" library at Malmstrom and check out the electronic resources. Here's just some of what we have to offer: EBSCO Host Academic Research and NewsBank for magazines, journals and newspapers Do-It-Yourself Reference Centers for Auto Repair, Small Engine Repair, Home Improvement Projects and the Hobby & Crafts Center Rosetta Stone Online Language Learning to learn a new language or brush up on an old one NetLibrary for e-books and e-audiobooks Overdrive for audio book downloads Peterson's DoD/MWR Education & Career Center for help writing a resume on its Civilian Career Center or studying for a CLEP EBSCO and GALE's Student Reference Centers for kids in elementary through high school TumbleBooks for on-line read-along picture books Tutor.com for online tutoring 24/7 homework help for kindergarten to college students and adult learners The library staff is available for one-on-one or small group instruction on computers, databases and other electronic formats. To schedule a topic and time, call 731-4638. Arden G. Hill Memorial Library, Malmstrom AFB 7356 4th Ave North, Building 1152 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.