A Conversation between StackMap and Library Thought Leader, Marshall Breeding

We recently spoke with Marshall Breeding, a renowned library technology expert and founder of Library Technology Guides, to gain his perspective on where library systems are headed. Marshall emphasized that while automation systems continue to evolve, the most meaningful transformation has been in the user-facing experiences—tools that make library collections easier to discover, navigate, and enjoy. He highlighted that patrons now expect intuitive, visually engaging interfaces, and pointed to solutions like StackMap as examples of how extending discovery into the physical space can significantly elevate the library experience.

Q: Over the past decade, what do you think have been the most transformative changes in library technology?

Marshall: Over the last ten years, we’ve seen steady—though sometimes incremental—progress in library automation systems. The real transformation, however, has happened in the services and interfaces that patrons interact with. Discovery environments, website management tools, event calendars, and catalog add-ins have all improved significantly.

Libraries today are expected to provide experiences that are not just functional, but intuitive and visually engaging—think book jackets, browsing carousels, and interactive tools that make collections easier to navigate. Products like StackMap, which extend the catalog into the physical library space, are examples of how these enhancements create a more engaging experience for patrons.

Q: What trends do you see shaping the future of library discovery and wayfinding?

Marshall: Discovery and wayfinding are going to get more sophisticated. We’re already seeing catalogs that can direct patrons to an item’s shelf and floor, but I expect richer visual connections and predictive tools to emerge—like confirming whether the item will actually be on the shelf when you arrive.

More broadly, public libraries need to keep pushing user experience forward. While discovery layers have improved, they still lag behind the seamless interfaces of startups, streaming platforms, or companies like Amazon. Libraries will need to keep investing in technologies that make navigation and discovery easier, helping them stay competitive with the intuitive digital experiences users encounter every day.

Q: As more patrons engage with libraries digitally, how can physical spaces remain relevant?

Marshall: That’s the big question. Libraries, both public and academic, have been reevaluating their spaces for years. Academic libraries often reduce physical collections to make room for collaborative study spaces. Public libraries, however, still emphasize browsable collections because they remain core to community engagement.

We’ve seen makerspaces, 3D printers, and tech labs become common in public libraries, but books are still a draw. At the same time, digital circulation is rising—sometimes 30–50% of total checkouts in some libraries. That said, print isn’t going away. Most readers mix formats, with some enjoying print, eBooks, and audiobooks simultaneously.

The challenge for libraries is to create inviting spaces that balance physical collections with new types of engagement. Wayfinding and spatial mapping tools help ensure that collections remain visible, accessible, and easy to explore within those spaces.

Q: How are libraries managing the push for innovation while working within budget constraints?

Marshall: Budgets are always a balancing act. Rising costs for digital content—streaming movies, audiobooks, and eBooks—put pressure on libraries, often more so than print. Libraries have to make careful decisions about where to allocate resources.

Innovation doesn’t necessarily mean higher costs, though. In many cases, smartly integrated technology helps libraries use their resources more effectively. For example, giving patrons multiple formats for the same content—print, eBook, audiobook, large print—helps reduce long wait times and makes the most of existing collections.

Tools that improve discoverability and access add value without requiring major infrastructure changes. They make it easier for patrons to engage with what the library already owns, which is a cost-efficient way to boost impact.

Q: What role do you think library vendors play in helping libraries serve their communities more effectively?

Marshall: Every library vendor contributes a piece of the larger puzzle: making library services easy, attractive, and engaging. Tools that improve user experience directly benefit both patrons and the institution.

StackMap is a good example of this. By helping patrons quickly locate materials or understand a library’s spaces, it reduces friction and makes the library feel more approachable. Patrons appreciate being able to see exactly where something is in the catalog, and that ease of use translates into more satisfied users and stronger library performance overall.

Of course, measuring success can be tricky. Libraries often get anecdotal feedback that patrons love features like visual maps, but tying that to broader analytics takes work. Even so, the impact is clear: technologies that reduce barriers to access help the library succeed in its mission.

Q: You’ve been covering this field for years. What excites you most about where library technology is headed next?

Marshall: Predicting the future is always tricky, especially with how quickly things change. Just three years ago, few would have guessed that generative AI would so quickly shape education, society, and libraries. It’s already having an impact—both positive and negative—and we’ll need to find ways to harness its creative potential while managing risks.

Beyond AI, there’s always the possibility of a new innovation emerging seemingly overnight. That’s part of what makes this field so exciting. Libraries may move deliberately, but the opportunities for transformation are always just around the corner.

As Marshall makes clear, libraries are at a pivotal moment where digital expectations and physical spaces intersect. The technologies that will matter most are those that reduce friction, improve discoverability, and make the library feel more approachable and engaging. StackMap is already delivering on that vision by connecting discovery directly to the physical collection, helping patrons navigate spaces with confidence, and ensuring resources are always visible and accessible. Importantly, these enhancements don’t require major infrastructure changes—they maximize the impact of collections and spaces libraries already have, making them a cost-effective way to boost user experience. Looking ahead, we’re excited to build on this foundation with richer visual tools, analytics, perhaps even predictive discovery features, and integrations that keep pace with emerging technologies like AI. In doing so, StackMap helps libraries not only meet today’s user expectations, but also stay ahead of the curve as discovery and wayfinding become more intelligent, intuitive, and indispensable.

We’re grateful to Marshall for sharing his expertise and perspectives—his insights underscore why StackMap is proud to partner with libraries worldwide in shaping the future of discovery and access.