The use of new technologies: from virtual to pragmatic, the experience of the Luca Pacioli library

Abstract

New technologies have transformed the organization of Public Administration in Italy. Innovations include online services and improved communication with users. Concurrently the concept of formation has changed. Today continuing professional development is vital to ensure that the sector’s human capital remains abreast of innovative work practices and technologies. Libraries are adapting their services to an ever evolving environment, taking on the challenges of the information revolution. The Luca Pacioli Library derwent radical change, eliminating open shelving in 2006. Its adaptive strategies have succeeded in inspiring reading and knowledge creation, and its continuing growth demonstrates its importance in this context. Despite the space reduction and loss of open shelving, thanks to the automated robotic retrieval system, interactive catalog, e-learning platform and elegant space, readers’ information seeking journeys pass from the tangible to the virtual and vice versa. Users have participated enthusiastically in the initiative which asks them to write a review of the book they have borrowed. Published on the e-learning platform, these reviews demonstrate continual commitment to and appreciation of language use.