Cloud computing and its applications in libraries

Cloud computing is a paradigm shift of computing and information technology to a new phase of platform to cater the clients more sophisticated manner and also more cost effective manner from a common pool of service providers platforms. Cloud computing technology continues to grow at a rapid rate with new applications and architecture. It is used to practice of storing, accessing and sharing data, applications and computing power in cyberspace. This technological development has brought a dramatic change in every field and libraries are not exception to it. Libraries have also started adopting this technology as cost effective tool which involves delivering hosted service over the web. Budgetary provision for building collection development and procurement of computing resources and peripherals have been reducing gradually, so cloud computing is the best option for the libraries to solve the above mention problem. This paper aims to demonstrate and elaborate various aspects of cloud computing, its uses in the field of library and information centers. This paper also tries to give clear idea that how cloud technology help libraries to provide a better service to the user community