Future focussed libraries - where are they heading?

There are many challenges ahead of us as we look to the future not only of libraries but also our roles as library professionals. This has been highlighted in recent months with the turmoil created by the COVID-19 pandemic.It is imperative that we stay informed about the trends and political, economic and social influences that will  affect how we move forward. The following documents, articles and resources focus on these very real challenges. Check out the resources on the COVID-19 page.
Future Ready Librarians
As schools seek to become Future Ready, it is necessary to identify and cultivate leadership beyond district and building leaders. School librarians lead, teach and support the Future Ready goals of their school and district in a variety of ways through their professional practice, programs and spaces. If properly prepared and supported, school librarians are well-positioned to be at the leading edge of the digital transformation of learning. (United States)
Leading Learning Framework for School Libraries
Leading Learning provides a guide for the transition of school libraries to vibrant centres of teaching and learning responsive to the diverse needs of learners today and into the future. It also serves as a measurement tool to help schools determine where they are now with library facilities and programs and where they want to advance to. (Canada)
Future of the Library and Information Profession
This section of the ALIA website is designed to host a range of information about the ALIA Future of the Profession initiatives and projects from 2013, including the result of forums and submissions, and reports and information about the projects and activities that have evolved since then. (Australia)
Library of the Future
This report is the result of a Library of the Future project that spanned the year 2015 an focusses on the next 20 years of the University of Adelaide Libraries. The report focusses around four main domains:
Centre for the Future of Libraries
The Center for the Future of Libraries works to:
  • Identify emerging trends relevant to libraries and the communities they serve
  • Promote futuring and innovation techniques to help librarians and library professionals shape their future
  • Build connections with experts and innovative thinkers to help libraries address emerging issues
Future Libraries
This report brings to light significant trends that will influence the future of public, academic and corporate libraries and outlines the implications on their design, operation and user experience. This piece of research presents a glimpse into the future. It explores what we may expect to see as the physical and the digital arena continues to evolve and aims to serve as a foundation for further discussion around the future role of libraries in the communities they serve.