SU10Q1Response

Libraries have always been hailed as essential institutional supports for democracy, that is, library service is seen as a "public good."

a. In what way does the idea of "information-as-a-commodity" undermine this idea? -puts up a barrier btwn. "haves" and the "have nots" -discourages the free exchange/sharing of ideas -lessens the significance of the social benefits of information - Libraries, in particular, have to show/prove value of existance - return on investment (ROI)

b. If the idea of information-as-a-commodity becomes the accepted wisdom in the United States, discuss TWO significant implications and/or challenges this would have for the development of national information policy? -equity of access? "digital divide" -standardizations of technological platforms to allow for interoperability

c. Finally, present your own arguments for or against the idea of library service as a "public good." Information as public good: benefits entire society, possible simultaneous use, enhances value Information as private good: possible to exclude others, possible to provide information as a sellable good. "Private good"- "collective good", use does not decrease amount available to others