OCLC report

What intrigued me the most about the OCLC report, "Information Format Trends: Content, Not Containers" was the concept of "content in context." If I understood this approach correctly, library webpages would not only provide links to additional relevant research materials and resouerces beyond the scope of the initial search, but it would also provide information for hard copy/electronic materials found in the library. A sort of one stop shopping for users to employ as they see fit. This makes the research experience more efficient and convenient for busy undergrads and grad students.

I found the idea of changing the image of the library "from the place for books to the place for information" (class discussion) as being absolutely essential and a fundamental theme in the OCLC article. Having come from an institution where the Board of Trustees think of the library as a "mausoleum," this issue is not only applicable but of monumental importance if proper funding is to be obtained. Broadening the scope of what a library can and should is quite necessary in this day and age.

I would only question the cost of providing this kind of access. The kinds of hardware one needs to provide the most timely delivery of information and the cost of software to facilitate it - not to mention, the cost of support. These are the kinds of issues that were addressed in the next article by Jason Vaughn.