Building a Virtual Library

Virtual libraries are organic and understanding the challenges as virtual libraries are developed and evolve are ongoing. These challenges range from content to interfaces, from digital video to geospatial infrastructures, from staffing to marketing. This book explores the dynamics of building a virtual library at the University of South Florida within the context of national developments and standards. This illustration will assist the reader in understanding and developing similar resources and services for his or her library. The chapter contributors have done an excellent job presenting both conceptual approaches and case illustrations in building a virtual library within an academic environment. Librarians will have a greater understanding of how technology and change impacts their environments. Staff in the traditional functional areas of libraries will see examples of how emerging technologies can be most efficiently and effectively utilized within their respective organizations. In addition, librarians in administrative positions will greatly benefit from the discussion of organizational change, the emergence of work teams, and staffing and personnel. In addition, the chapters on marketing, and statistics provide an clear picture of the importance of both of these activities to both libraries and their larger institutions. Finally, library and information science faculty will be interested in how the development of virtual libraries will re-engineer library education. This book is essential reading for those individuals currently planning or implementing virtual library services and resources within their academic environment