How digital libraries can support e-learning

Purpose – Digital libraries have the potential to offer unprecedented resources for supporting e-learning. This paper addresses and discusses such aspects as what is meant by “e-learning”, and how can it be supported by the library environment, the functionality of the digital library; and how e-learning resources are included and organized in the digital library. Design/methodology/approach – The paper explores the advantages of digital libraries for e-learning and the types of learning that can be supported by digital libraries. Findings – There is undoubtedly a keenness to use online information resources for research and teaching, but this seems to be matched by a lack of awareness of how best to integrate these resources into the e-learning environment. Originality/value – The paper provides a useful insight into the role and influence of digital libraries and online resources on e-learning