Digital libraries on internet as a key for the upgrading of information and library services

Abstract

The qualitative upgrading of the services offered by libraries and information services are connected with the existence and operation of digital libraries in the Internet. Definitions are presented, while distinction between terms like electronic, digital and virtual library as well as Libraries Networks and libraries consortia are provided. A brief reference to a number of the most important publishers, involved in the area of digital information provision, follows. The various components of a digital library from the content, procedures and technical characteristics points of view are described. Commends are also provided concerning technological, and institutional issues as well as problems faced by librarians, arisen during the current transitional phase of establishment of digital libraries. Finally a checklist of actions to do is presented including the procedures needed for the development and the operation of a digital library system.