I'm caught up thinking about the future. Earlier this month I attended 5 focus groups with print impaired users and service providers. In those groups we asked questions about information needs, preferred formats for receiving information, and suggestions for improved access to information. I heard frustrations about current capabilities as well as ideas for future services and resources. Most of all I heard users wanting to participate in their communities and service providers eager to help make that connection. As we continue to gather more information for the print impaired strategic plan, I'm excited to see how it develops.

One thing seems obvious: the Talking Book Service which has been the primary provider of information to visually and physically disabled users for 70 years cannot continue to be the only game in town. The March/April issue of Public Libraries has a series of titles on this topic. The articles range from sharp criticism of the program for changing too slowly to eager anticipation for the digital books and players that will begin distribution in 2008. I agree with portions of what each author says, but realize the discussion must be more than philosophical.

We are an aging population. I recently read that by 2010 1 in 3 Americans will be 50 or older. (I fit right in) With aging comes visual, physical, and mental conditions that limit one’s ability to read standard print. In addition, isolating conditions increase one’s need for community. How will Idaho's libraries respond to these needs? Will we harness new technologies to overcome the inability to physically come to the library? What can we offer in addition to access to information? This is the value added that distinguishes libraries from accessing the Internet. Preparing for Vision 2020 and developing the Print Impaired Strategic Plan is a great opportunity to think outside the box.