America: ALA, June 2011.
"••People—People are the library’s greatest advantage. The library’s staff of professionals are available to provide unbiased service to individuals at no charge and often with little or no delay. They have no commercial or political incentives affecting their advice, adhere to a professional code of ethics, and generally are experts in one or more segments of the library’s collections. They play an active role in creating the collections; in arranging for speakers, convening events, and organizing exhibits; in selecting technology to meet user needs and offering training in its use; in organizing services to meet user needs; and in general, in fashioning the library to serve its patrons and its community. These professionals will serve as the library’s driving force for adaptive change.
•• Place—Most libraries offer the advantage of place— physical facilities that are quiet, private, and comfortable for reading and reflection, as well as meeting places for small or large groups. These facilities exist today in many libraries throughout the country, representing a valuable physical infrastructure.
•• Price—Virtually all public libraries provide services to their patrons at no charge, a price that it is difficult for their commercial competitors to meet, except with the help of advertisements."
