BRINGING ELECTRONIC BOOKS (EBOOKS) INTO THE DIGITAL LIBRARY

摘要

As a greater number of electronic resources become available, retrieving relevant and authoritative information has become progressively more challenging and time consuming. Locating relevant information in a timely manner is critical for both the researcher and the information professional. Electronic books (eBooks) are one way to enhance the digital library with global 24 x 7 access to authoritative information. eBooks enable users to quickly retrieve and access specific research materials easily, quickly, and effectively. It is crucial to not only provide these electronic resources, but to integrate them into library systems to streamline library operation, as well as promote user adoption. As an eBook provider, netLibrary, Inc. has been involved in the selection, cataloging, and distribution of eBooks and has been working with library system vendors to integrate eBooks into library online public access catalogs (OPACs). This enables library users to remotely search, locate, and checkout eBooks from the library's OPAC. As with any new opportunity, new challenges emerge and utilizing the Internet to deliver book content is no exception. Integrating electronic books into the digital library has created challenges and opportunities for librarians, publishers, and eBook providers.