The University of Chicago Library is a dream … I did not imagine that there would be so much technology and concern for the welfare of users in the same environment. I saw that offering access to information services is as important as offering comfortable environments to attractive ones. The preservation project on the lower floor, below a modern reading room, was surprising. It is also interesting to know the work of the Center for Digital Scholarship (CDS), the actions for Data Preservation and Sharing and the GIS Hub projects that also integrates ARCGIS into Google Earth.
The Little Italy Public Library space is very attractive for children and young people, with several activities during the seasons, they manage to keep an active audience. I do not work with a public library or with the attention of children’s audiences, but I have full confidence that if we do not strengthen these libraries, others will not be valued. They are where we start captivating the public, users for all other libraries.
More surprises would still come with the visit to the Harold Washington Branch Chicago Public Library, in addition to occupying a huge building the infrastructure is magnificent. With spaces for all audiences from children to the elderly, with attention for activities that could not be imagined in a library. For young people a creative space with classes from sewing, games, music and others, all integrated. The beautiful common spaces such as the memory exhibition to Vietnam veterans, sculptures, paintings between various historical and cultural attractions.
Knowing the Upshot Marketing and seeing the professional possibilities that are not inside libraries confirmed what he always said, being a librarian opens several areas of knowledge and opportunities, we have to understand that the profession is constantly evolving, to meet new demands and use new technologies .
Seeing ALA’s work for library professionals makes me want to further strengthen Brazilian associations that are not always recognized by the librarians themselves. These are important activities that give an impact on the importance of professionals for correct, preserved and accessible information.
