ABSTRACT

A future-looking image of smart and connected communities is beginning to emerge and be developed through various research and development efforts rolling out nationwide. However, physical libraries have not yet featured prominently in these images. As libraries are critical civic spaces, it makes sense to assume libraries should and will play a role in what we envision for cities of the future. This chapter states some of the central benefits and values represented by physical libraries and argues that those are essential for the forward motion of digitally enhanced cities. Some potential opportunities are identified and discussed, as is an invitation for others to ensure that libraries are represented in the discourse around smart and connected communities.