What is Community Clouds

The advent of computers and other communication technologies led to major transformations in the way library services are rendered and the profession practiced. The libraries have been automated, networked, and are now moving towards paperless or virtual libraries. This chapter examines various facets of cloud computing, describes types and applications. It also outlines the benefits and challenges of cloud computing in academic libraries. Further, the chapter gives direction about the use of cloud computing services to the library professionals and academic libraries in Nigeria. This chapter may be helpful in generating cloud-based services for academic libraries. The chapter suggests that quality service assurance by cloud providers must be ensured, upgrading of internet bandwidth for fast access and quick information dissemination that would improve academic library services. It concludes that cloud computing is crucial and vital in modern information innovation, especially in academic libraries.