The Mansueto library was recently opened to the faculty and students of the University of Chicago. The library’s unique construction is meant to accommodate the way research is done today: online. In the case an old journal article isn’t available online or a book hasn’t been scanned due to copyright limitations, for example, then the student can request the book right there on the computer. The automated storage and retrieval system will deliver the volume to the circulation desk, usually within the five minutes it takes for the student to walk there. Oversized and novelty books are also stored for retrieval.
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Hardly.
Storing hardcopy is oh so last century.
The true library of the future will be on your TV, Smartphone, Home Computer, etc. Available anywhere, anytime, for any book, article, video, sound clip, etc.