Rise and demise of neoliberalism: time to reassess the impact on public libraries

D McMenemy - Library review, 2009 - emerald.com
Library review, 2009emerald.com
Purpose–The purpose of this paper is to discuss the efficacy of neoliberal philosophy in light
of its collapse as a result of the recent banking crises, and the impact the wider philosophy
has had on the practice of public librarianship. Design/methodology/approach–Provides a
reflective viewpoint on an important issue facing the profession. Findings–The paper finds
that the use of a language that is now discredited in terms of its efficacy is counter‐
productive and that librarianship should re‐consider its adoption of the language of …
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to discuss the efficacy of neoliberal philosophy in light of its collapse as a result of the recent banking crises, and the impact the wider philosophy has had on the practice of public librarianship.
Design/methodology/approach
Provides a reflective viewpoint on an important issue facing the profession.
Findings
The paper finds that the use of a language that is now discredited in terms of its efficacy is counter‐productive and that librarianship should re‐consider its adoption of the language of neoliberalism in its consideration of users and services.
Practical implications
Should be of interest to those working in public library roles who wish to question some of the philosophies with which they are presented within their organisations and in their professional literature.
Originality/value
This is the first paper to discuss the potential of the disintegration of neoliberal philosophy on the development of the public library profession in the UK.
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