LIBRARY FUTURIST KEYNOTE SPEAKER: WHAT’S THE FUTURE OF LIBRARIES?

OK, we imagine you’re wondering: What do library futurist keynote speakers and librarian consultants frequently highlight in key note addresses? Let’s discuss.

• Expanded digital collections – More investment in digital content, resources, archives and databases. Possible reduction of physical collections as library futurists and keynote speakers see it.
• Automation of operations – Increased automation of routine tasks like check-outs, cataloging, acquisitions through AI, self-service kiosks, robotics.
• Customizable spaces – Libraries designing more modular, reconfigurable spaces to enable different uses. More private meeting/study rooms.
• Hyper-targeted services – Libraries leveraging data analytics from library futurists’ viewpoint to provide highly customized, personalized services and recommendations.
• Experiential learning – Less focus on transactions, more on collaborative learning, new media creation, hands-on experiences.
• Community catalysis – Libraries as creative centers, co-working spaces, incubator hubs, and community builders.
• Emerging tech integration – Integration of augmented/virtual reality, makerspaces, visualization walls, and new tech into learning. A big area of concern for library futurist keynote speakers.
• Extreme accessibility – Services embedded into everyday life through apps, home delivery, public kiosks, on-demand access.
• Participatory engagement – Community members actively co-designing and contributing to library services and programs.
• Multi-institutional convergence – Blending of public, academic and school libraries along with other institutions. More partnerships.
• Constant reinvention – Constant iteration and reinvention to remain essential in an ever-changing information and education landscape.
• Staff as guides – Librarians and staff acting from library futurist keynote speakers’ standpoint as inspirational guides, mentors, coaches, partners rather than just information providers.