ABSTRACT

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book sets forth a dizzying array of considerations for librarians to ponder as we tackle the challenges of creating the digital library for the twenty-first century. It describes a unique partnership between the library and Sirsi Corporation. The book discusses the use of vendor conferences to ensure the smooth reopening of the award-winning Central Library in Portland, Oregon. It shares observations from the OhioLINK experience and outlines a comprehensive checklist of decision points for consortia that are sharing electronic resources. The book argues for the adoption of usability testing in libraries to better understand how patrons approach us through information technology and to learn what barriers patrons encounter that hamper a successful experience using electronic resources. It also discusses the role that outcome-based education can play as a model methodology for the selection and teaching of new information technologies in libraries.