The Renaissance of the library

The library is often described as ‘the heart of the university’, but the information world of the Web sometimes casts doubt on whether the library really occupies a central role in academic research and education. However, the overwhelming evidence of heavily used libraries, the upsurge of new buildings, and projects for reconstructions or adaptations of older buildings contradicts this view. Libraries are integrating new media and skills; they are developing new integrated services; and they are active and, in many instances, leading partners in the field of knowledge management, as well as in multimedia applications and e-learning activities. Libraries act as agents of change as well as fulfilling the functions of guaranteeing a sustainable information environment for the present and for the future. Under the wide-ranging title ‘The Renaissance of the Library’, the LIBER Seminar in Bozen/Bolzano will bring together contributions from architects, computer specialists, designers as well as from librarians from all over Europe and the United States. Participants will have the opportunity to exchange experiences and to hear about illuminating new developments and ideas. Thanks are due to the local hosts and organisers, the University Library of the Free University of Bozen/Bolzano, and the European Academy of Bozen/Bolzano and Ca’ Foscari University Library, Venice.