Abstract
Online and virtual libraries have developed rapidly in recent years. However, no matter how much the functionality of virtual libraries improves, they cannot replace conven-tional public libraries. The causes and the background of the coexistence state are not yet clear. On the other hand, when considering the future of the next generation of virtual libraries, it is possible to gain insights by focusing on how the roles and functions of public libraries have changed. Based on this position, this paper will reconsider the history of libraries as public cultural institutions from the perspective of Humanities and Informatics to reevaluate the history of the roles and characteristics of public libraries. Looking back at the history of libraries, the history of the development of libraries can be described as a history how library spaces have become more open and people's freedom to use libraries has become more expanded. When considering the next generation of libraries, the history of libraries suggests more active use of digital technology to create an environment that allows people to use the library freely from time and spatial re-strictions. Besides, since the ages of private collection rooms, libraries were not only the spaces for preserving existing books(information), but also served as symposium and manuscript rooms. How to digitally reproduce the library as a ‘creative place to en-counter with unknown information’ is also a challenge for the next generation virtual library.
https://ror.org/034zkkc78 
