By David Vitrano

L’Observateur

LAPLACE – As the world of information moves from ink-and-paper-based mediums to that of silicon and LEDs, some information sources have struggled to keep up with the ever-evolving technology. Public libraries, however, have managed to stay one step ahead of the curve.

The drawers holding rows of cards that one used to have to shuffle through to find a particular book are a thing of the past, long ago replaced by a computerized version.

“In 1996 we went online with our card catalogue, and it hasn’t stopped since then,” said Randy DeSoto, director of St. John the Baptist Parish Public Libraries.

“In the space of 14 years we’ve gone from four computers to a variety of different services that are Internet-based,” he explained.

DeSoto said the library’s initial foray into the world of computers consisted of a lone computer linked to a still developing Internet. Each parish in the state received one computer, he said, and searches could be slow and time consuming.

“It was really difficult to find anything,” he said.

Of course, now the main branch has a whole section of the library devoted to public-access computers, and even the smaller branches have at least a handful of the machines.

The state library system, in the decade and a half since computers were introduced into public libraries, has learned to utilize the tools so they have become an integral part of the library experience.

Public libraries across the state now offer a variety of online databases and services for patrons.

On the library’s home page, www.stjohn.lib. la.us, visitors can access databases such as “A to Z USA,” which offers a wealth of information on the states, and “Learning Express Library,” which features resources on test-taking and job skills.

“It’s good for the students,” said DeSoto. “It’s a test preparation and study center.”

Other databases include AccessScience, Mango Languages and Tumblebooks, aimed at younger patrons.

According to DeSoto, the only requirement for one to use these services is a valid library card.

While these offerings are a great addition to the library’s traditional services, for most, they are not the only area in which the library has delved into technology.

For most, libraries mean one thing — books. And libraries are also changing with the times to reflect current reading trends.

“We’ve entered the world of downloadable books,” said DeSoto.

State libraries recently began offering e-books, which can be checked out just like any paper-and-ink book and downloaded to personal electronic reader devices.

According to DeSoto, the books are compatible with the Sony E-Reader as well as with Apple devices such as i-Pods. After a certain amount of time, the books expire.

“It’s exactly like checking a book out,” said DeSoto.

Libraries also have become centers for learning about computers themselves. Right now, the main branch of the St. John Parish library is offering computer classes every Thursday. The daylong sessions currently cover the basics of the various Microsoft Office applications, and the state library is currently planning sessions covering the line of Adobe creative programs.

DeSoto said the current slate of classes filled up quickly.

“I think that shows there’s an interest and a need,” he said.

While some might suppose that the advances in technology might have diminished the need for the brick-and mortar library, DeSoto believes the changes have not affected the role of the library but instead have just altered the way in which people use it.

“We provide people with recreation, learning opportunities and information,” he said.

He likened the recent technological advances to the evolution of books into different audio formats.

And while he noted a national decline in the checking out of physical books, he does not think the tangible version will disappear completely, at least not in the near future.

“100 years from now, who knows,” said DeSoto, adding, “Information will always be available in one format or another.”