Seth Godin’s post about “The Future of the Library” has sparked interesting conversations by two groups; general public and librarians. I know the centre of discussion is about public library in the states, and I am not a librarian, nor do I want to challenge Seth; cause really why would I stand up against the guru who when he speaks half of the world listen? However, as an Information Professional, I have strong reaction when Seth claimed “The information is free now”. Such a bold statement coming from expert as Seth, in my mind, not only it has overlooked several areas but could also have some significant impacts in our society, net society to be exact.
- Where — Seth said it on the net, to the audience who we can safely assume has fairly high level of computer literacy
- Who — Because of their high computer literacy level, they are most likely the knowledge workers spread out among the corporations
- How — With the impression that information is free and out there somewhere, any one can and should find it hence everyone can do the research
Potential impact ?
This leads to the danger of misconception about finding information and doing research. InfoPros verify and validate the sources, try to be as comprehensive and authoritative as possible; but with the convenience and explosion of internet and social media, no one seems to care so much any more. Google is the fast food to internet search, social media just completes the ordering process. How so? You google the information, ask your social network if you want to know more, then it’s done !
Maybe I am biased given my profession, but saying information is free is like saying, your time is free cause it does take time to make information available and useful. I do hope people value business research as much as medical research, science research or academic research, it is equally important if not more, after all, the decision you make is based on the information you get.
I like what my friend Naomi Dunford (@IttyBiz) said here “How stupid people get attention”, I may just be the down-to-earth stupid person trying to produce useful content 
