COLUMBIA (WACH) -- Across the U.S. libraries are embracing technology.

“Our role is to help patrons access everything that is out there and guide them through the process,” says USC Assistant Professor Karen Gavigan at the School of Library and Information Science.

According to Gavigan, the mission of libraries, to provide information is still true today, but the format for utilizing its resources is changing.

More people are now checking out a new way of reading.  Since the development of Amazon’s Kindle and Apple's iPad there has been a surge in demand of electronic books.

Richland County Public Library has 2,813 eBooks. 

“We are hearing from our community ‘give us more, give us more’ and we are responding,” says RCPL Director of Literacy and Learning Tony Tallent.

While eBooks are flying off the digitals shelves, Thomas Cooper Library at USC can't seem to keep enough laptops in stock for students to borrow.

“We are seeing students using online databases more than hard-copy reference books,” Gavigan adds.

In some cases, it’s cheaper for libraries to offer online access to encyclopedias and downloadables, although it doesn't mean books will become obsolete.

The same goes for libraries.  Usage in RCPL has never been higher.  Officials attribute some of the growth to the economy.

During a six month period, the library assisted more than 3,000 people in job searches.

“Our strategic plan is to enhance the customer experience,” Tallent says.

One thing that will never change:  you still need a library card.