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Unfortunately, for better or for worse (or both, I guess it depends on one's political views) most of the world is entering a new age of austerity. Despite the importance of libraries, especially during tough times, I don't expect they will escape the various budget cuts.
That said, I don't have a problem with a library altering its scope to extend beyond merely warehousing books and periodicals. A good library should also be a good research institution, as well as a place one can find shared cultural resources. More importantly, expanding their role isn't what threatens their existence; it's budget cuts and lack of local support.
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