I’d like to check out this book

Cities and towns across the world are re-imagining the library. Because of the digization of stories and knowledge, collecting and sharing print books may no longer be the primary purpose of the library.

Dispensing of librarians and stacked shelves, a suburb in Minnesota has set up a new library branch that functions like a vending machine, using digitally locked cubbies to distribute books and DVDs. Shifting the focus from books to people, the University of Amsterdam has converted  one of its libraries into a giant study hall.

While there is a clear need for libraries to evolve, there is still a place for print books and physical interactions.

A couple of weekends ago, I checked out the Sketchbook Project, a traveling collection of sketchbooks. It was produced in collaboration with and took place at the Brooklyn Art Library, which functions as a gallery/library/storefront.

The collection is filled with thousands of sketchbook from artists both famous and unknown, featuring mixed media collages and pages of handwritten journal entries. Some of the books unfold as giant posters; others use thread and other everyday objects to communicate the story.

While you could digitize the books and view them on an iPad or Kindle, you would miss out on the texture and tactility of the experience.

The Brooklyn Art Library uses a traditional library system. In order to look at a sketchbook, you have to get a library card, reserve a book, pick it up from the librarian, and read it on the premises.

Using traditional check out model sounds tedious, but it means that you get to sit at a table with other readers and take your time with each sketchbook.

Projects like this demonstrate why print books and old-school library models are still important. While digital plays an indispensable role in the distribution of stories and knowledge, certain kinds of print books offer a medium-specific experience that can’t be captured on an iPad or Kindle.

(Melissa Andrada) @themelissard