【Part 3】Vision for the Future in 2030 ~ How Will Libraries Change? ~ | Softech Inc.

Softech Inc. (Headquarters: Sapporo) has released the third installment of its information dissemination project, "Thinking About Libraries in 2030," which contemplates the future of libraries.

This project is an ongoing initiative to communicate the future direction of libraries to society, based on the challenges and on-site changes observed through our library system business.

Furthermore, Softech will launch a new series, "Libraries Transformed by Small Actions (5 parts total)," in August 2026, introducing improvement cases and practical initiatives seen in library sites nationwide.

The future of libraries is not solely shaped by large budgets or reforms. Changes can also begin with moving a single chair.

This new series will introduce changes born from such "small actions."

Leveraging Japanese distinctiveness to create libraries where people can spend time comfortably (※Image)

In "Part 1," we discussed how Japanese libraries are at a "crossroads of redefinition," and in "Part 2," we looked at libraries around the world that have evolved into "spaces for people."

There is no need to blindly imitate libraries overseas. Japan has its own unique strengths.

Tranquility, a sense of security, meticulousness.
And, "just the right distance" from others.

By 2030, libraries will evolve into "spaces where people can spend time comfortably," while leveraging these Japanese characteristics.

1. Libraries will become "Places People Want to Visit Even Without a Specific Purpose"

Traditionally, the primary role of libraries has been "a place to borrow books."
However, by 2030, libraries will transform into "places people want to visit" even if they don't borrow books.
- People quietly reading by the window
- High school students studying after school
- People stopping by on their way home from work

People will naturally gravitate towards them, even without a special purpose.
Japanese libraries will enhance their value as "quiet and comfortable public spaces."

2. Libraries will become "Hubs Supporting Learning"

The global trend of "reskilling" and "upskilling" is beginning to spread to Japanese libraries as well.
- Programming classes for children
- Smartphone consultation sessions for seniors
- Mini-lectures by community members

Not school, not work. But accessible to anyone.
From places to "receive knowledge" to places where people "share knowledge."
People who want to learn, from children to the elderly, will naturally gather.
Such scenes are gradually becoming more common.

3. Libraries will become "Spaces Where Gentle Connections Are Born"

Currently, loneliness and social division are significant social issues in Japan.
Therefore, libraries will become even more important as "places for easy connection."
- Weekly book clubs
- Small local exhibitions
- Evenings around board games
- Casual gatherings for parents with young children

These are not large-scale events.
But, sharing the same space and having a brief conversation with someone.
Such "gentle connections" may become increasingly important in libraries going forward.

4. Libraries will become "Spaces Where Print and Digital Coexist"

Digitalization is rapidly advancing worldwide.
On the other hand, Japan has a culture of valuing physical books.
By 2030, libraries will evolve into spaces that leverage both "the warmth of print" and "the convenience of digital."
- Time to leisurely select physical books
- The convenience of reading e-books casually
- Digital archives of local historical materials
- Online lectures and streaming events

Not "either/or," but "leveraging both."
This is the future of Japanese libraries.

5. Libraries will become "Infrastructure Supporting Communities"

- Places for children to gather
- Digital support for the elderly
- Information provision for foreign residents
- Information hubs during disasters

-- Places to go when you need help.

Around the world, libraries are already expanding their role as "infrastructure supporting communities."

6. "Small Actions" Will Change Japan's Future

The future of libraries can be changed without large budgets.
- Moving a chair
- Trying out small initiatives
- Incorporating user feedback

The accumulation of these small actions will change the "speed of the future" for libraries.

■ Summary

By 2030, libraries will evolve beyond "places to borrow books" into public spaces where people can spend time comfortably.
The difference between the world and Japan lies not in "direction" but in "speed."

-- What future is your local library heading towards?

In the next installment, "Practical Application," we will specifically introduce "small actions" that libraries, government bodies, and citizens can take starting tomorrow.

■ In this series, we consider "the potential of future libraries" from the perspective of those on the ground.
We hope you will read it and think together with us about the future of libraries.

▼ "Libraries in 2030" Series List

- Part 1: Are Libraries No Longer Necessary? ~ The Changing Role of Libraries ~
https://libmax.com/information-116

- Part 2: The Present State of Libraries Worldwide ~ "Hints of the Future" Seen in the Differences with Japan ~
https://libmax.com/information-117

- Part 3: Vision for the Future in 2030 ~ How Will Libraries Change? ~
https://libmax.com/information-118

- Practical Application: Small Actions That Will Change the Future ~ What Libraries, Government, and Citizens Can Each Do ~
*Scheduled for release in July 2026