Web-based library services: Stages; Requirements and Services

The development of WWW (World Wide Web) and the Internet as information storage and delivery tools has emerged as a speedy means of exchanging information quickly and inexpensively for future use. The Internet has revolutionized library information storage, information retrieval, and information and communication systems. The more library information services are provided in digital format, the more information users will be able to use electronic information sources from mobile areas.

Due to technological advancements and continuous prosperity, libraries are responsible for making their user community more attractive in providing services. The touch of technological advancement has not only changed the form of information but also impacted where and how information services are provided. The Internet has been included in the virtual world.

In simple terms, the collective form of library services that are provided as web resources is called website library services.

Web-based library stages:

In the transformation from traditional library services to online-based services, four stages of information retrieval have been created. These are –

  1. First-generation tools for information retrieval: In this, bibliographic database services have been developed.
  2. Second-generation tools for data retrieval: In this, index sources were developed to use the functions of automation.
  3. Third-generation tools for data retrieval: In this, World Wide Web (WWW) Meta search engines were used. For example, Harvest and Meta Crawler.
  4. Fourth-Generation Information Retrieval Tools: This involves the integration of new technologies into search agent technology. Through this, the type of information search from the web is gradually improving.

Requirements for Web-based Library Services:

To provide library services through the Internet, some of the same characteristics as in the traditional service sector must be incorporated. Such as accuracy, promptness, and the ability to understand the needs of information needs. Providing library services through the Internet allows customers to access information resources at their convenience and at their own pace. This saves travel time and costs. It is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, rather than for a fixed period of time as is customary.

Various means of web-based library services:

Today, users have access to many types of textual information resources. There are various types of web-based reference resources and services for accessing various information in the library. They are OPACs, gateways, subject portals, electronic journals, online databases, search engines, and subject directories.

  1. OPAC: An OPAC (Online Public Access Catalog) that provides users with bibliographic information about resources held in a particular library’s own collection.
  2. Gateways: Gateways are databases in a specific subject area that can be easily accessed as network-based resources. They provide anyone with basic and advanced search capabilities for research databases and indexes. For example: Internet Public Libraries, Bulletin Boards for Libraries
  3. Subject portals: According to the library community, a portal is a collection of services provided by library staff. This collection will be a means of integrating existing services through coordination.Although website technology was initially developed by computer scientists, gradually information scientists have made their mark in enriching the Internet information resource. A special portal developed by information professionals is SOSIG – Social Science Information Gateway.
  4. Electronic Journals: Electronic journals constitute a large part of the web-based library services. Today, many journals are being published in e-journal versions. Some of them provide full TEXT and some abstracts along with bibliographic information. The biggest advantage of this is that it is instantly updated. But the disadvantage is that it violates copyright law, such as Elesvier’s Science Direct Emerelled Full Text.
  5. Online database: It is a large collection of data in machine readable format that is established for business and can be used through communication lines. Such databases require subscription and new information can be used. But it only provides bibliographic information. For example: Web and Services
  6. Search Engine: A search engine is a large database of web page files automatically indexed by machines. A search engine creates an index of the homepage of every website and subject directory. Search engines have already gained immense popularity as information retrieval systems. Basically, a search engine is software that matches users’ searches and displays the answers.
  7. Subject Directory: A subject directory is a database collection separate from a search engine. Whereas a database is created by a search engine, a subject directory uses a human-generated database. A subject directory basically indexes the home pages of websites. They are usually categorized as academic, commercial, or portal-based.

New Web-based Library Services:

Virtual Library Tour:

Library websites provide information about library facilities. They include information about the library’s collection, services, directions, etc.

Ask a Librarian:

Ask a Librarian is an Internet-based question-and-answer service that allows users to interact with information professionals who are experts in a particular subject. Most Ask a Librarian services are web-based. Here, questions are asked and answered via a web page or email. Here, users are invited to submit questions via a web form or email. Once read by the system, it is transferred to the subject matter expert, who then provides detailed information or a breakdown of the information on behalf of those experts.

Real-time service:

 A new and exciting service in digital reference services is the real-time service. Through this, libraries strive to provide users with more up-to-date reference information. Real-time service connects directly to the system. Reference librarians can communicate with users anytime, anywhere.

Bulletin Boards:

A bulletin board is an electronic communication form that aggregates all messages and articles published on a specific subject, notifying the user through messages and providing the opportunity to retrieve information.

WorldCat:

WorldCat is the world’s largest library context and service network. WorldCat is generous in its use of resources on their website so that most people can search the website for information.

Web-based library services develop in distinct stages. They begin with the establishment of digital access infrastructure, advance to the integration of diverse resources, and culminate in interactive features that enhance user engagement. The effectiveness of these services depends on several key requirements, including robust technical systems, user-friendly interfaces, comprehensive digital collections, and efficient support mechanisms. By providing seamless access to resources, collaboration tools, and personalized support, these services transform traditional library experiences into dynamic and accessible digital platforms.

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