The wrong path and the right path: The role of libraries in access to, and preservation of, cultural heritage

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the role of libraries in access to, and preservation of, cultural heritage in concert with a wide range of other cultural institutions.

Considers a contest of values and the devaluation of reading and of the print culture as a feature of this contest. Rejects the values of information technology and scientific management and calls for their replacement by the humanistic values of libraries as one of a range of cultural institutions.

Relates “cultural heritage” records to a variety of cultural institutions who could be allies with libraries within a shared culture.

Calls for a structure and agreements between libraries and other cultural institutions aimed at pooling resources and harnessing energy and expertise to achieve cultural goals – particularly the organization, preservation, and transmission of the human record and the cultural heritage that it embodies.