The evolving digital library

Volume 20, Number 3 • February 2000

The evolving digital library
by Kim Guenther

BUILDING DIGITAL LIBRARIES column starts with the digital chaos of the past, when there was no universal interface to provide a familiar front end to the user. Says that later, some of these systems were accessible using the Internet, but still the user needed to know which Internet technology to use. Observes that the digital library was forever changed with the widespread adoption of the World Wide Web, since Web browsers provided a universal interface almost overnight. Discusses the impact of the Web, noting that few industries have escaped its impact on business. Add that this is especially true for information industries. Looks at the author's background and why she studied library science and became involved in Web development and management. Outlines plans to write about design and management strategies for building the digital library over the next few issues.