THE FUTURE OF THE 21ST CENTURY LIBRARIES IS HYBRID.

Purpose: This paper examines the future of 21^st century libraries against the backdrop that many libraries have moved or are in the process of moving from a traditional print-based collection to one where traditional hardcopy and electronic information resources co-exist and are brought together in an integrated information service, accessed via electronic gateways available both on site and remotely via the internet or local computer networks. Design/Methodology/Approach: This is a reflective paper based on author's observation, experience and review of related literature. Findings: Hybrid libraries are the new norm in most public and academic libraries of this 21^st century since they offer a combination of traditional and virtual provisions in collections stored in digital formats which are accessible via computers and bibliographic databases that index thousands of peer-reviewed scientific journals; many offer access to full text articles. This means bringing the two worlds of librarianship in one place. Research Limitations/Implications: The implication of this study is therefore that hybrid library should not, then, be seen as nothing more than an uneasy transitional phase between the conventional library and digital library but, rather, as a worthwhile model in its own right, which can be usefully developed and improved. Originality: The approach and prototype described in this paper provides an enhanced model hybrid library service as the main model for future existence, development as well as a direction of library in the 21^st century. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]