I recently came across this article from 2003 called "Visions: The Academic Library in 2012". Since we are fast approaching 2012, and SLA has made it's theme for the year and for the Annual Conference "Future Ready", I thought it might be interesting to see where at least one person thought we would be right now.
To me it seems that for the most part our evolution has been slower than expected. Much like the flying car that should have been in every garage by now, reality seems to progress slower than predicted. Interestingly, though, many of the themes remain the same.
By far the greatest number of predictions had to do with technology. In some areas, like nearly ubiquitous wireless and the growth of personal devices, the forecast is quite close to reality. In others, such as automatic translators that allow a person to truly do a global search independent of language, are still farther off.
It is an interesting read as we try to plan for the future. I encourage you to read it and let me know what you think.
By far the most predictions had to do with technology. In some areas, such as, almost without exception, and the personal growth of wireless devices, the prognosis is quite close to reality.
Posted by: קעקועים | 10/04/2011 at 05:29 PM