Editing Research library (section)

=== Future prospects ===
With the rapid advancement of technology and the advent of the digital age, consumers expectations are changing and libraries are being required to improve their digital infrastructure. This phenomenon began in the early 2010s and has been accelerated due to the [[COVID-19 pandemic]] when many libraries across the world were physically closed forcing patrons to rely solely on their electronic offerings. Libraries have had to update their technological infrastructure in order to keep up with the new demands of the public.<ref name=":2" />

The first step the average person takes when they conduct research is no longer visiting the library but searching for information online.<ref name=":0" /> Patrons will obtain a basic understanding of their topic and identify the books or materials they need before ever setting foot in a library. They can also identify which libraries will provide them the most convenient access to these materials through online archives and catalogues.<ref name=":1" /> This is what makes effective digitization projects in libraries and the maintenance of accurate online catalogues crucial for libraries' continued survival. Libraries may also have functions on their websites which enable patrons to email librarians with questions directly to obtain answers in a quick and efficient manner and also ensure that questions will be addressed by the most qualified party.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ask a Librarian - Ask a Librarian |url=https://ask.loc.gov/ |access-date=2022-05-27 |website=ask.loc.gov}}</ref>

Libraries are now required to have extensive digital collections which comprise electronic journals, [[Ebook]]s and virtual reference services. They must also make their catalogues available online for users to quickly determine whether the library has the materials they need and when and how these materials will be available for their use. Many libraries also have interlinked systems that enable patrons to reserve and borrow books from affiliated libraries, effectively increasing their collection size while keeping costs down.<ref name=":1" /> This can make it possible for libraries to offer resources that have a narrow appeal and a low demand but that could still be useful for patrons to access.<ref name=":9">{{Cite web |last=Co |first=Ex Libris A. ProQuest |title=Three Trends Shaping the Future of Libraries |url=https://www.libraryjournal.com/story/three-trends-future |access-date=2022-05-27 |website=Library Journal}}</ref>

Libraries are also required to be more efficient to meet both consumer demand and to keep up with continuing budget cuts. One benefit of increasing digitization is that it enables greater automation of workflows within libraries which ensures that they become more streamlined. These increased efficiencies ensure libraries and their librarians are able to provide the highest quality service possible.<ref name=":9" />