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Related Experiment Videos

The digital library: an oxymoron?

J C Guédon1

  • 1Département de Littérature comparée, Université de Montréal, Quebec, Canada. guedon@ere.umontreal.ca

Bulletin of the Medical Library Association
|February 6, 1999
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

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Virtual libraries can be re-empowered by focusing on human interaction, transforming from passive knowledge repositories into active community hubs. This approach redefines the role of librarians in the digital age.

Area of Science:

  • Library and Information Science
  • Digital Humanities
  • Philosophy of Information

Background:

  • The terms "virtual libraries" and "digital libraries" are prevalent but often lack clear definition.
  • Digital refers to document encoding, while virtual implies potential and is philosophically nuanced.
  • Commercial interests seek to redefine knowledge's political economy, potentially diminishing libraries.

Observation:

  • The concept of "virtual" in libraries holds untapped potential, linked to philosophical notions of possibility.
  • The shift to digital environments is influenced by commercial interests aiming to alter knowledge management.
  • Libraries risk becoming "impotent" or an "oxymoron" if their role is solely as digital repositories.

Findings:

  • Virtualizing libraries does not necessitate their diminishment; librarians can find new empowerment.

Related Experiment Videos

  • Re-empowerment hinges on prioritizing human interaction within library operations.
  • Librarians should shift from "knowledge bankers" to "hearts" that energize communities.

    • Implications:

    • Libraries can evolve into dynamic community centers rather than static information warehouses.
    • Librarian roles can be redefined to foster engagement and integration within communities.
    • A human-centered approach can safeguard the relevance and vitality of libraries in the digital era.