In the most recent edition of American Libraries, Jesse Ephraim poses the interesting title question, “Why Must a Card Be a Card?”.   In a world where it seems nearly everyone has an iPhone, Android or other mobile device, increasing numbers of people are digitizing their store reward cards using barcode generating apps or even by taking pictures of the back of the cards.  The store cashier can then simply scan the barcode on the phone; this also works for electronic coupons.  So, why not do the same with library cards?

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A recent report by the Urban Libraries Council, Partners for the Future: Public Libraries and Local Governments Creating Sustainable Communities, reemphasizes  the importance of partnerships between public libraries and local government to promote economically viable, socially equitable communities.  “Local governments are leading the way in confronting the connected economic, environmental, and social equity challenges that are essential to the long-term health and vitality of North America’s counties, cities, and towns.  Public libraries are emerging as strategic partners with their local governments in shaping and achieving sustainability goals” states the report.  Libraries do a lot to help boost local economies by supporting education and early literacy, providing entrepreneurs with valuable information, and helping job-seekers increase their skill sets and find employment.  Additionally, libraries promote social equity through strategically placed library branches, mobile libraries and, offering programs and technology services to everyone.

Because of their good reputation in the community, libraries are a great resource for local governments to utilize to reach the community, to hold public meetings, and to deliver services that back local priorities.  Partnering with local government on shared initiatives creates an opportunity to enhance the results.