Digitization of Library Resources: Challenges and Implications For Policy and Planning
Loading...
Date
2006-07
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
International Journal of African & African American Studies
Abstract
This paper examines the concept of digitization, it’s purposes and the process of digitization
of library resources. The cognitive flexibility, relational communication and non-verbal
immediacy communication theories were used for illustration. It also discusses the challenges
often encountered during digitization and the implications for planning and policy.
Digitization implies conversion of documents and art works into digital images. Digital
images here mean electronic copies of documents. Digitization is a process in which materials
are converted from the hard copies to electronic copies. The major purposes of digitalization
are: to enhance access and improve preservation of library materials. A number of challenges
are encountered in the process of digitizing library materials. These challenges include human
and technical problems, which have implications for planning and policy. It was concluded
that digitization is an essential task in modern day libraries, because of the current
challenges, and the need to go digital, that is, provide online services.