Bookends Scenarios
In 2009, the State Library of NSW, in collaboration with the Neville Freeman Agency and the NSW public library network, undertook a future scenario planning project. This initiative explored possible futures up to the year 2030 and considered how libraries might respond to emerging trends and challenges.
The Bookends Scenarios were developed to support NSW public libraries in planning for the future needs of their communities. The project aimed to identify opportunities and gaps in competencies, resourcing, and service models, while also helping to develop strategies to ensure the long-term sustainability of the public library network.
The purpose of building these scenarios was not to build an accurate view of the future of public libraries, but rather to stimulate reflection and discussion about the key elements and variables that could shape the future and how libraries might influence and shape this future.
In 2014, the Bookends Scenarios were revisited through the Building on the Bookends project.
This follow-up involved research, interviews, and workshops with over 50 representatives from NSW public libraries, the State Library, and other stakeholders. The central question was: What do we need to do to ensure public libraries are successful in 2030?
The Building on the Bookends Scenarios report tracked progress along the scenario pathways developed in 2009 and presented a series of strategic options that libraries could implement in order be innovative, sustainable and resilient in the future.
In 2025, a new round of the project will be undertaken, with the aim of analysing which futures public libraries will need to take into account up to and beyond 2030.
- Project resources
Bookends Scenarios (2009)
Building on the Bookends (2014)
Thought leadership report
This 2014 report prepared by Neville Freeman Agency looked at developments in the external environment in which public libraries in Australia (and in particular in NSW) were operating since the publication of the Bookends Scenario report in 2009.
Future of Public Libraries Forum
The Future of Public Libraries Forum report summarises the conversation of the delegates at the Forum on 29 August 2014. It was also used as a key input for a strategy-building workshop in October 2014.