Scientific Libraries: Past Developments And Future Changes

Description:
Scientific libraries have undergone dramatic changes since the end of the 1960s. This book explains and characterise these changes and main trends, and describe their consequences for the libraries. The aim of the book is to present an overview and an analysis of the long-term developments. Professionals within library and information sciences, together with students, will find the book of interest, enabling them to understand the situation of the libraries today and also prepare them for decisions about the future. Key Features The book summarises the author's unique practical experiences from 35 years of work within the field of library and information sciences Analyses main trends from a holistic and long-term perspective The book provides the reader with the tools when trying to plan for and predict the future The Author Dr. Tomas Lidman is currently General Director of the National Archives in Sweden. He was National Librarian 1995-2003 and before that (1991-95) University Librarian of Stockholm. Since 2003 he has been Chairman of the University College of Fine Arts in Stockholm and was 1998-2004 Chairman of the University of Boras.He has been working internationally within IFLA, EU, Council of Europe and ICA. Readership The book is of great value for individuals working within Library and Information Science sectors but also for decision-makers and others involved in the cultural heritage sector. Contents Introduction Not like the old days - the dawning of a new era: the 1970s From cards to computers: the 1980s A decade of optimism: 1990-2000 Harvest time: 2000-2007 The challenges for libraries in the future

Table of Contents:
From cards to computers; the student explosion during the 1960s and its consequences for libraries; from independent intellectual institutions to institutions serving education and research; open shelves or closed?; introduction of administrative systems; the student takes over; demands for a cost-effective management; times of economic decline; national co-ordinating initiatives; introduction of the Internet; Internet: dreams and what it all became; electronic journals and the change of accessibility; new buildings: for use or for boasting? ALM - a new-born baby.

Author Biography:
Dr. Tomas Lidman is currently General Director of the National Archives in Sweden. He was National Librarian 1995-2003 and before that (1991-95) University Librarian of Stockholm. Since 2003 he has been Chairman of the University College of Fine Arts in Stockholm and was 1998-2004 Chairman of the University of Boras. He has been working internationally within IFLA, EU, Council of Europe and ICA.