This book in the Library Futures Series examines blockchain technology, a concept with far-reaching implications for the future of the information professions. Blockchain uses a distributed database (multiple devices not connected to a common processor) that organizes data into records (blocks) that have cryptographic validation. The data are timestamped and linked to previous records so that they can only be changed by those who own the encryption keys to write to the files. In this book, editors Hirsh and Alman offer a primer of what librarians and information professionals need to understand about blockchain technology. Several speculative visions for how blockchain could support the core work of libraries are included to help librarians understand the possibilities for improved operations and services. Featuring essays from a range of information professionals who have interest and experience in blockchain technologies, this book presents valuable ideas for exploration relevant to everyone interested in the future of librarianship.
Dr. Sandra Hirsh is Director and Professor of the School of Information at San José State University. Prior to that, she worked in the Silicon Valley in R&D and consumer product development for more than a decade at major technology companies: Hewlett Packard Labs, Microsoft, and LinkedIn. Her research interests include information seeking behavior, online education, and LIS education. She co-founded and co-chairs the global virtual Library 2.0 conference series. She is the editor of Information Services Today: An Introduction, a foundational LIS textbook. Currently, she is involved in an IMLS-funded project to determine the feasibility of libraries as community anchors using blockchain technology. She holds both a bachelor's degree and Ph.D. from UCLA and a MLIS degree from the University of Michigan. Dr. Susan Alman was appointed to the San José State University School of Information full-time faculty in 2012. Prior to this appointment, she taught at the University of Pittsburgh's School of Information Sciences where she was Director of Distance Education and Outreach (1987-2012) and the University of Michigan (1985-87). In Fall 2014, she developed and led a MOOC, The Emerging Future: Technology Issues and Trends, that attracted over 1700 global participants. She is currently involved in the IMLS-funded project, Investigation of Possible Uses of Blockchain Technology by Libraries-Information Centers to Support City-Community Goals. Sue is an alumna of the Institute for Emerging Leadership in Online Learning and enjoys being involved in the changing information professions. She holds both a Ph.D. and MLIS degree from the University of Pittsburgh.
