From novels and textbooks to reading clubs and guest lectures, libraries play an important part of our communities. As more people distribute and access information through the Internet, libraries will need to become more than buildings that house information. Already, libraries are becoming more connected to their surrounding communities, hosting cultural events, group meetings, talks, and reading circles. The library of 2030 will draw on elements of museums, theatres, parks, and schools. Libraries will blend these together to create spaces designed to serve, understand, and represent their communities.

Librarians in 2030 will have the opportunity to play an expanded role in their communities. In addition to library science skills like information systems design, data visualization, and resource management, they will be skilled community advocates and coordinators. Librarians may even find themselves advising city governments on policy and partnering with them to deliver programs. The trust and affection people have for libraries ensures that they have the potential to exist long after physical books are replaced with e-books; libraries will continue to be a special space for learning, sharing, reflection, and for community voices to be heard.

Librarians should have a degree in Library Sciences, and should also consider minoring in a humanities or social science, such as social work, law, political science, history or anthropology. A background in business administration and management would also be an asset.