e-library
The innovative libraries were delivering digital content, and were creating as well as stewarding content and managing licensing and copyright for their organisations. Examples of e-library activities include:
- Providing access to ebooks via intranets
- Managing all internal electronic documents and business records, as well as copyright of internally produced content that is available for the public
e-services
Libraries are delivering their virtual services via many channels. Library employees are embedded in project teams. More emphasis is given to training employees in the use of content tools, whether face to face or virtual learning. E-services enable 24/7 service delivery. Examples of e-services activity include:
- Using social computing and semantic computing to connect like-minded people
- Creating data visualisation tools
Digitisation
Libraries are focusing on the conversion of print to e-formats, particularly in the public sector who are focusing on both access and preservation. Corporate services tend to digitise on an as-needed basis.
Physical space management
Spaces are being downsized and reconfigured as physical collections are digitised, off sited or weeded.
Technology tools for service delivery
A number of technology tools are discussed, including Wi-Fi, single sign-in, ebooks and a varied approach to social networking tools
Procurement and acquisition
Negotiation skills are critical for libraries. Many work with vendors to integrate widgets to facilitate easier information access.
Key trends
- Virtual delivery of services and content
- A move away from quick fix' content to providing more analysis/research content.
- A move towards supporting colleagues in the use of content and resources
- Creating unique, bespoke high value services
- Using social network tools or similar behind firewalls
- Managing content licensing
- Developing digital content/managing digital collections
- Managing centralised e-services
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