> I have to dispute the assumption that libraries exist to keep OCLC in business. I don't think that is the purpose of libraries. If libraries can dump their holdings and make them crawlable and put in place resource sharing based on that OCLC should be supporting libraries's use of newer technologies instead of trying to stop that use in order to maintain their organization. OCLC is supposed to help libraries serve their constituencies, that is the purpose, not libraries are supposed to keep OCLC running.
Exactly. OCLC is supposed to be our "collective" friend (and should be; certainly there are plenty within OCLC who are), and perhaps along with LoC, one of our *best* friends. Yet, at the same time, libraries are afraid to talk about -- let alone act on -- these kinds of business practices.
When you're afraid of one of your best friends, something is very very wrong indeed.
MJ
Received on Fri Mar 05 2010 - 09:59:44 EST