Naisbitt's Megatrends: some implications for the electronic library

The best‐selling book Megatrends, written by John Naisbitt, has been cited in numerous library and information science publications and talks since its appearance in 1982 Megatrends was bound to capture the attention of the librarians, since it boldly proclaims on page one that no shift “is more subtle, yet more explosive” than the change from an industrial to an information society. It has further appeal because many of the changes documented in Megatrends can be observed in libraries and the institutions and organizations they serve; moreover, the trends provide a framework from which to assess the status and direction of the information professions. This article will examine the several megatrends as they apply to the electronic library and will suggest appropriate plans of action.