Resource Sharing Library Network
Resource sharing is the focal point of library networking and cooperation. The tested technological advances in this field have tremendously increased the ability of retrieving and accessing information over long distances.
Library resource sharing networks entail consideration of available connections. Several capabilities need to be exploited. Some of these are discussed for your benefit.
- Machine-readability: The ability to store information in magnetic form with data entered once, and used many times in a variety of requirements.
- Retrievability: The ability to select information which has not been arranged in alphabetic sequence; even stored randomly, to make more relevant the material identified.
- Remote accessing: The ability to disseminate or exchange information from distant locations based on local and individualistic requirements.
The above capabilities have resulted in the preparation of machine-readable catalogue records (MARC) which could be used centrally or replicated for use locally or regionally. The ability to exploit databases to respond to individual requirements has been enhanced or facilitated by retrievability. On the other hand, the establishment of telecommunications networks which could be accessed over long distances have helped in remote accessing of bibliographic databases. The technology of sharing networks has been discussed extensively in the literature of library science.
Since there is a need to share data about acquisitions, holdings, inter-library loan requests, and completed transactions - and to share this data over distances - the technology of computers and telecommunications is dominant in the design and operation of resource sharing systems.
There is a whole range of computers, which can be considered for resource sharing systems. Small inexpensive computers (microcomputers) to more expensive large scale computer facilities are available for this purpose. Libraries participating in resource sharing networks may wish to utilise any of these to support local automation requirements. Careful analysis is needed to ensure that equipment choices for local and/or to support consortium requirements to ensure compatibility. In a resource sharing network participating libraries must recognise both the potential and problems that result because of adoption of technology. Successful cooperation is closely related to adherence of standards. Standardisation is a must in the electronic environment.