> Because each institution is different, each library should be different.
> Each libraries collection will be different and have different focuses. Each
> library's holdings and services are expected to be tailored the needs of the
> library's users.
At the risk of sounding Clintonesque, it depends on how we define
catalog. I was thinking of the catalog in terms of the platform and
data rather than in terms of what patrons and staff see.
There is nothing contradictory about moving the catalog and data to
the network level while maintaining distinct services for user
communities with different needs. For example, displays and algorithms
emphasizing the most popular works might be very appropriate in a
public library setting, while the research community may be better
served with tools and displays that emphasize locating the unique and
obscure.
Something that looks and acts like a different catalog does not
require separate hardware or data sources. The goal shouldn't be to
homogenize things. Rather, it should be eliminate duplication of
commodity processes to free up resources so we can address the
specialized needs of different user communities.
kyle
--
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Kyle Banerjee
Digital Services Program Manager
Orbis Cascade Alliance
banerjek_at_uoregon.edu / 541.359.9599
Received on Fri Feb 13 2009 - 14:15:25 EST