The Library in Crisis 2002
Distributed by Filmakers Library, 124 East 40th Street, New York, NY 10016; 202-808-4980
Produced by Filmakers Library
Director n/a
VHS, color, 46 min.
College - Adult
History, Education, Libraries
Date Entered: 11/09/2018
Reviewed by Mary Snyder, School of Library and Information Studies, Texas Woman’s UniversityThis video presents a historical view of the dual role of libraries as cultural institutions and change agents. The library is viewed as a subversive institution, created to preserve as well as to question cultural and societal mores. The scope and power of libraries, across time and space, is a well-developed theme in this production. Experts in the book arts, library history, censorship, public and technical services trace the role of the library in ancient civilizations through the revolutions of publishing and industrialization to the challenges of the digital age.
A highlight of the presentation is the cogent discussion of the value of digital information, its integrity and its availability. Lack of synthesis of information and failure to understand the research process are identified as deficiencies inherent to digital information, which is seen as more superficial than more traditional resources. Featured speakers imply that libraries are devalued by the misconception that all information is available in a digital format.
Current controversies within librarianship and the information industry are clearly presented. These include the struggle between maintaining a tradition of public service vs. library as center of electronic commerce and free access vs. fee for service initiatives.
The video in this production is not of the highest quality. Jerky motion and uneven photography detract from the message as well as the viewing experience.
The Library in Crisis is recommended, marginally, for its historical content and is suitable for public and academic libraries as well as for beginning courses in Library Science.