Expanding outward: libraries broaden their impact

摘要

Purpose - The purpose of this column is to describe several examples of libraries providing services to their patrons to broaden their impact beyond their four walls. Design/methodology/approach - Literature review and commentary on this topic that has been addressed by professionals, researchers and practitioners. Findings - Mobility substantiates the claim that library users have certain expectations from their libraries, not the least of which is to maintain a currency with the latest technological advances through its services. Therefore, younger generations brought up on high-tech access to their library materials via an array of services outside the building itself is paramount to a public expecting its links to services anywhere, anytime. Originality/value - The value in exploring this topic is to examine several real-world scenarios where libraries have provided exceptional services beyond the building to satisfy the ever-expanding expectations of their users.