Online Learning Update Ray Schroeder, editor, COLRS - Online@Illinois Springfield

Online Learning Update - a blog published daily since 2001 by Ray Schroeder, Professor Emeritus, University of Illinois at Springfield

Friday, December 17, 2004
Google Virtual-Library Agreement Is Important First Step - Gartner.com

A true global virtual library is still years away, but academic librarians and administrators should prepare for the increasing digitization and online availability of library collections. For years, academics have envisioned a free global virtual library. However, digitizing collections, protecting copyright and finding funding for such a large-scale project have been daunting obstacles. This agreement moves the vision of a virtual library a small step closer to reality. Google’s willingness to underwrite the digitizing of texts for online access removes one of the main stumbling blocks — cost. Google has also opened the door for its competitors, such as Yahoo and MSN, to become involved in major digital-library projects.

 



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