Lessons from European Libraries Thoughts

I hope you enjoyed the video yesterday. I felt that Dr. Nicholson had some very interesting things to say, both about European and American libraries.

First, he talked about making libraries community spaces. I see some libraries across the US embracing this - making their spaces places where people want to be social, network, and maybe do a bit of learning as well. In this economy, I think having a place like that is incredibly helpful. Making the actual library building open and welcoming goes a long way in this. For example, when Jen and I were in Seattle, we went by the library there. Wonderful, open, welcoming space - and it is full of people!

Second, he pointed out the key difference between American and European libraries - that in Europe, you have to pay to be a member of a library. Initially, I balked at this idea - information should be free for those that want it. But, as Dr. Nicholson points out, there are some benefits to the pay system. First, authors (because of the copyright structure) receive a royalty every time their book is checked out of the library. This helps to preserve the value of the work at booksellers. Also, this allows the library to be much more “meshed” with the expectations and desires of patrons - because it does not have to be all things to all people. American libraries cannot tailor themselves as closely to their patrons, while European libraries must listen intently for that their patrons want - otherwise the patrons won’t renew their memberships.

So what does a paid membership library look like. Well, shockingly, there is less space for books. Yes, there are still plenty of books, but the amount of physical space they take up in the libraries is reduced. There are far more computers, games, videos, and theaters. Of course, this could be different depending on their patron base - but whatever it might look like, it would be directly responsive to the wants, needs and preference of the patrons.

And that, I think is the lesson that American libraries should take - you need to tailor your library better to what your patrons need. That, in turn, will grow membership, and continue to improve your library.