Trends in Web-Based Services in Academic Libraries

Abstract

Change is afoot in the academic library world. The World Wide Web has expanded the types of services academic librarians are able to provide their patrons. We can now offer Web-based electronic databases, WebPACS, electronic journals, electronic reserve systems with Web-interfaces and a wide range of specialized digital library collections. Our patrons now have access to a huge variety of information, and they no longer have to leave their offices or homes to obtain it. Future developments include improved information retrieval algorithms, chic user-interfaces, advanced network services and virtual libraries created to serve the growing population of distance and online learners. Academic librarians face a world of exploding digital resources and their assistance in organizing this chaotic web of information is vital.