Ava Walter, 12th grade

Throughout history, libraries have changed immensely, but the aim of enriching the community has still remained the same. The beginning of libraries began in the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia and Egypt when temples or palaces stored scrolls. The texts of these very first libraries were largely limited to religious narratives and accounting or administrative documents used by the elite ruling class of these civilizations. However, as years passed, libraries began to evolve.

The invention of the printing press in the 15th century changed libraries forever. The printing press increased the level of literacy in society, allowing the written word to spread rapidly to large numbers of people instead of only the elite. Fairly quickly, libraries transformed from being exclusive collections, with no more than one or two copies of a book, into public libraries, demonstrating that there was a connection between the importance of literacy and the empowerment of the people regardless of their position in society. By the late 19th century, public libraries began to emerge immensely, funded by wealthy individuals or large cities providing financial support to allow for wider access and ownership of information and literature.

By the 20th century, libraries were faced with fresh challenges but also a great amount of innovations due to the expansion of technology. The history of library evolution really accelerated upon the introduction of the card catalogue and later the use of computers. Cards and card cataloguing were quickly replaced by computer technology that increased efficiency, such as tracking and locating books or documents. Additionally, books, pamphlets and articles could be easily searched for and retrieved using keywords. Libraries were not only changing in content, as services changed from restricted access to wide access in libraries by providing comprehensive services to users, but libraries were also unveiling user services through author talks, literacy training, public platforms, and overall reaching people in a broader capacity.

As technology began to transform society, libraries transformed with the community they served.

Libraries ultimately became centers of technology, providing access to computers and the internet while also providing training on digital literacy. In the rich climate of digital communication and representations of identity, libraries continued to evolve alongside and serve their communities by progressing to serve as public community-based spaces for events, workshops, programs and various recreational opportunities.

There's no doubt that libraries have evolved significantly over the years. Today, libraries use the innovations of technology and how it can serve the public while also continuing to bring people access to literature and knowledge through books, pamphlets, magazines, and articles that all help to promote literacy and learning.