News from the New York State Librarian by Janet Welch Commission to examine library service for the 21st century

To some people, the word "library" conjures up an image of rows and rows of volumes on every possible subject, and softly lit corners inviting the visitor to spend a quiet afternoon engrossed in the pages of a good book. Others might imagine a digital warehouse of information and literature being shared through a global fiber optic network. Today's libraries, though, operate in a mixed electronic and print environment, typically offering not only well-stocked bookshelves and knowledgeable librarians, but also electronic reference tools, Internet access, and a wide variety of informational media.

New York's libraries have the potential to offer a gateway to information resources in every format -- on and off the Internet, in the library's own building, and remotely to homes, offices, and schools. In this Information Age, the library is emerging as an element of social infrastructure which communities see as important as its roads and bridges.

The state Board of Regents has taken action to ensure that all communities in the state will have quality library service far into the future. The board recently endorsed a Regents Commission on Library Services to examine library services in the state and plan for future development. The Commission's tasks are to articulate a vision for library service in the 21st century and to develop and recommend a plan for ensuring equal access to information for all New Yorkers.

The commission will make the first broad examination of library services in the state since 1981. Its 12 members, who will take 18 months to develop their recommendations, will be selected from among New York's community and professional leaders. They will be advised on major issues by a panel of experts. An honorary board comprised of well-known New Yorkers will be appointed to advocate for libraries and for the implementation of the commission's recommendations. The results will provide a framework to guide New York's libraries into the next century.

Here are some of the topics the Regents Commission on Library Services will address:

• equitable library service for all New Yorkers;
• organization and relationship of libraries and library systems;
• financial support for libraries and library systems;
• projections of service needs in the 21st century;
• the role of the New York State Library in leading and supporting new directions for library services; and
• visibility and public awareness of libraries and library systems as a source of lifelong learning and enrichment.

[reprinted from Education New York; The Independent Journal of Schools and Cultural Affairs in the Empire State, Volume 2, Issue 3, March 1998.]