Digital Futures: Strategies for the Information Age

Citation

Meaden, K. (2002), "Digital Futures: Strategies for the Information Age", New Library World, Vol. 103 No. 7/8, pp. 296-296. https://doi.org/10.1108/nlw.2002.103.7_8.296.1

This book provides a refreshing overview to the processes of the digital/electronic/hybrid library, from its creation through to its delivery and management. It considers the practical aspects of how to develop collections before discussing the wider strategic issues, thus building up a comprehensive overview of the current environment. However, it is an overview – a single book cannot cover all the relevant issues facing librarians with regard to the digital library. The authors have acknowledged this fact as the text is the first publication in a series, each of which will focus on, and develop, one particular topic.

The chapters related to the creation of a digital library consider such topics as resource discovery, the types of resources available and their advantages/disadvantages, system design, the possibilities of sharing records and resources and the economics of production. It is also rare to find a book that fully considers the effectiveness of the end user interface, but this one actually discusses the possibilities and pitfalls of both portalisation and personalisation. The sections that deal with the wider strategic issues focus on the need for preservation and how this can be achieved, the role of the librarian in an electronic information age and how to anticipate future trends.

It offers a practical and down to earth approach to the topic, discussing the issues objectively rather than expressing either cynicism or great enthusiasm for digital media. It is also relevant to a wide audience – whilst it is primarily aimed at those with little prior knowledge of the subject, it contains useful tips and information for the more informed as well. Consequently, the text is suitable for library students, Web designers, and indeed all those who need or want to be aware of developments in the area of how to create and maintain digital libraries.

In the short‐term future, there will be currency issues with the text due to the dynamism of the medium that it covers. In particular, it provides examples of useful Web services that emphasise particular points it is making. Whilst this is more helpful than lengthy descriptions, they will develop, move or be removed in time. However, this is merely a consideration and hopefully the text will be revised at regular intervals. It certainly should not deter anyone from purchasing a copy as its usefulness will be immediate.

If the rest of the series is as good as this, bring it on!