ABSTRACT

The definition, role and functions of "library" are changing. The National Library of Education (NLE) is in transition from a traditional library to a virtual library encompassing "one stop [any stop] shopping" through conventional and digital means. To adequately plan for the transition, a plea is made for studying the customer and potential customers of NLE before technology based systems are installed.

Assumptions are made about the nature of the planning process in regard to technology: ERIC exists and will form the core of the NLE; other library information services within the Department of Education should be linked to NLE through the U.S. Education Information Network (USEIN); implementation will occur in stages over several years; NLE will create knowledge products by analysis and synthesis of data and information; and NLE will provide filters to assist users in obtaining information efficiently as well as to receive it from them.

Beginning with the assumption that many components already exist in the scope of NLE/USEIN (e.g., INet, ERIC, Gateway to Educational Materials, NPIN and Virtual Reference Desk), a transition scenario spells out many of the challenges and technological changes that will have to be made. The challenges include: customer interfaces, organization and networking to facilitate access, amalgamation of existing components, recruiting external participants, maintaining quality services and full text availability.

An agenda for the technology-related aspects of the planning process includes: (1) creation of a national union catalog of educational resources; (2) development of metadata formats to serve as platforms for searchable databases; (3) establishing methods and standards for interoperating multiple distributed collections as one, even though in many locations; (4) development of standards for delivery of full text and non-print materials; (5) creation of a workable structure for digital copyright and protection of intellectual property rights; and (6) development of safeguards for system security and individual privacy.

Potential pitfalls in the planning process are delineated with suggestions for alleviating them. Topics include: quality of materials; scope and comprehensiveness of resources; copyright and other restrictions to the use of the materials; transition from current procedures to new protocols; costs to the users; the handling of multiple media formats; providing assistance to users and internal agendas of participating organizations.
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