presentation | Apr 24, 2013

The changing world of librarians

Lee Rainie discussed the Project’s latest research about how people use technology and how people use libraries, and the implications of this work for libraries.

report | Mar 18, 2013

“What should I read next?”

It’s a question that librarians, booksellers, and others have heard often, perhaps even more so at a time when the output and availability of the written word has never been higher. And it’s a question that new book-recommendation sites such as Bookish and BookScout are trying to answer, joining a plethora of communities and services already trying to navigate the tricky task of helping you decide which book to pick up next.

report | Feb 6, 2013

Should libraries shush?

If there’s one thing our research shows, it’s that there’s no one thing people want their libraries to be. They want their libraries to be lots of things, a place where they can study and meet with friends and attend meetings — and more. Should libraries be quiet or bustling — or both?

report | Jan 29, 2013

Innovative library services “in the wild”

Our new report takes a close look not only at how Americans are using public libraries, but also what sort of services and programming they think libraries should offer — and what they say they would use in the future. For this last point, we asked about a range of potential offerings. Here are illustrations of some of these more innovative services, to see what they look like on the ground — as well as some “fun and funky” services that we’ve seen pop up at libraries across the county.

presentation | Jan 26, 2013

Pew Internet Research Update at ALA Midwinter Meeting 2013

Join Lee Rainie to hear firsthand new findings about library services: what the public wants (and does not want) at libraries, as well as details from library focus groups on how libraries are coping with the new mix of services.

report | Jan 25, 2013

Other library links and news around the web

While we hope you’ve had a chance to read our new report on library services that just came out this week, there are some other great links out there that you should be sure to check out.

report | Jan 25, 2013

New library services Americans say they would (or would not) use

We asked people whether they would use a variety of possible new activities and features at libraries. Our list was weighted towards services that are rooted in technology and allow more tech-related interactions with libraries and at them.

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