Publications and Research
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
10-24-2016
Abstract
One could argue that universities originated
from places like the Library of Alexandria, established
23 centuries ago in Egypt. Libraries like
the one in Alexandria attracted the most talented
intellectuals.
They contained not only a large number of
papyrus scrolls but also served as botanical gardens,
collections of art and places of residence
for scholars.
When modern universities were built, libraries
occupied a distinctive place where students and
faculty went on an almost daily basis to seek the
information they needed for their studies. But
over the last few decades their role has transformed
and lessened. One reason for this decline
is the spiraling cost of running them while institutions
of higher education – particularly public
ones – face constant budget cuts. Another reason
is the increased availability of scholarly journals
and books in electronic formats that can be
accessed from remote locations, making a visit to
the library less and less necessary.
Comments
This work was originally published in The Edwardsville Intelligencer.