The development of digital libraries in China and the shaping of digital librarians
Abstract
Purpose
Aims to focus on the need for appropriately trained librarians of the next‐generation, the “Digital Librarians”, with particular emphasis on China.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper first analyzes the definition and features of the digital library, and is followed by an introduction to digital libraries developing in China. Work modes and quality composition of digital librarians are then analyzed and discussed.
Findings
Digital libraries emerging in the information age represent an inevitable trend for library development. A digital library contains a vast amount of digital information resources in multiple media. It may provide readers with diversified information services using digital and network technologies. In addition to certain hardware and software availabilities, the evolving digital library requires appropriately trained librarians of the next‐generation, the “Digital Librarians”, which forms the theme of this paper.
Originality/value
Provides recommendations and measures on how China can develop further its digital librarians.
Keywords
Citation
Zhou, Q. (2005), "The development of digital libraries in China and the shaping of digital librarians", The Electronic Library, Vol. 23 No. 4, pp. 433-441. https://doi.org/10.1108/02640470510611490
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2005, Emerald Group Publishing Limited