ABSTRACT
The development of public libraries from 1850–2018 is summarised in three stages: the Traditional Library (1850–1970), the Community Led Library (1970–2000) and the Needs Based Library (2000–2018). The ideas of Marx, Maslow and Management are applied to the three phases of public library development. The key features of the Traditional, Community Led and Needs Based Library are summarised. Conclusions are reached regarding the nature of Organisational Culture change. Ways forward are identified for carrying out a cultural change process. Some concluding thoughts are given about the future of the public library.
