23 Resource Sharing and Networking

  1.  Introduction

The concept of a modern library itself means ‗sharing of information resources‘. Using a library means accommodating others (fellow members) on one hand and ‗requesting‘ others to get him/her accommodated on the other. Thus ‗sharing‘ with others and ‗caring‘ for others are the inherent properties of a library. Public libraries try to satisfy the hunger for information of their patrons either on its own or through some other libraries. This is more true and relevant in today‘s scenario where we can see exponential growth in number of publications, their ever increasing cost, growing demands and expectations from libraries and decreasing budgets of libraries.

 

Growth in ICT has also forced and compelled the libraries to think in terms of formation of a library network and share its resources with others. Considering the necessity of building and maintaining library networks IFLA, in its Publications -147 i.e. IFLA Public Library Service Guidelines, suggested that ―The library manager must ensure that networks are developed and maintained at the national, regional and local level to ensure optimum access to ICT and cooperative services. This enables a wide range of resources to be brought to the customer at a local level. The library manager should also develop effective working partnerships with other organisations in the community, benefiting both the library and its customers and also the partner‖.

 

The goals of library resource sharing networks are often stated in terms of more services for the same cost or same services for the less cost.

 

2.  Resource Sharing: What and Why

 

Encyclopedia of Library and Information Science defines resource as a person, thing, or action to which one resorts to, when needed. In other words, we can say that resource sharing is a way of library cooperation whereby library resources (manpower, material, functions, methods, expertise, services and infrastructure, etc.) are shared amongst participating libraries. Resource sharing is done in a way so that the availability of sources is maximized and cost is minimized. This leads to the optimum utilization of library resources. Resource sharing is mainly aimed at providing suitable access to information to library users irrespective of the locations of the resources. That would mean, libraries go beyond their own resources to satisfy the user requirements.

 

Resource sharing encompasses sharing of information, all types of databases, cooperative acquisition, shared cataloguing, sharing of manpower, equipment, expertise and services. Resource sharing via network implies automation, data communication and effective cooperation. Allan Kent provides a description of some of the concepts associated with the resource sharing activity as ―Resource sharing in libraries is defined as a mode of operation where the functions are shared in common by a number of libraries in its most positive effects. Resource sharing entails reciprocity, employing partnership in which each member has something useful to contribute to others and in which every member is willing and able to make available when needed‖.

 

Library resource sharing does not mean that participating libraries need to compromise on their individual autonomy and identity. In fact the gains of resource sharing are to be obtained without in any way adversely affecting the objectives or interest of the participating libraries. However, some minor adjustments may have to be made in exceptional situations, with regards to the operational methods.

 

Thus in the light of above discussion, we can conclude that the objectives of library resource sharing

are:

  • Optimization of library resources.
  • Avoid duplication of resources.
  • Focus on specialized collection development.
  • Make the system compatible by using standards and protocols

 

Need for resource sharing in public libraries is inevitable because of various reasons. Some of most pertinent reasons are given hereunder:

 

  • Ever increasing literature in each and every field of knowledge and multiplicity of documents in different subjects, languages and formats;
  • High expectations of users for to-the-point, exhaustive and expeditious information services at a minimum cost;
  • Fission and fusion of subjects and formation of new subjects and subject specialization;
  • Growth in number of library users, reading community and information seekers;
  • Diversified and wider category of user groups and their information requirements;
  • Users‘ demand for rare and specialized documents;
  • Space and financial constraint.
  • Need for reduction in recurring cost of maintenance, processing of documents and the cost incurred in duplication in information.
  • Development of specialised areas of collection building each member library concentrating on areas of its own concern.

 

2.1.  Methods

 

In order to make the resource sharing happen, two or more interested libraries have to come forward and enter into a formal agreement in order to implement information handling operation for the mutual benefit of their respective users. Participating libraries generally follow identical or compatible procedures. These member libraries can later form an ICT based network followed by a library consortium.

 

2.1.1.   Areas of Resource Sharing

 

  • Inter-library loan – Though it is not feasible to share all types of documents but a large number of documents are shared by way of inter library loan facility amongst the participating libraries. However some policies need to be formulated for sharing of documents.
  • Cooperative acquisition – Libraries, in resource sharing module, acquire those documents only which are ‗core‘ to the Library. Other needs of documents are fulfilled from other libraries in the module. This way duplication in acquisition is avoided. This is also called rational acquisition.
  • Cataloguing – Centralized processing is another important area of resource sharing wherein libraries decide among themselves that who will be doing classification, cataloguing, etc. Apart from cooperative cataloguing, participating libraries ensure that members of libraries know about their collection. This is achieved by developing and maintaining union catalogue and a union list of serial publications. A good union catalogue ensures enhanced use of documents.

 

Following are some other areas of resource sharing:

  • Sharing of bibliographical data
  • Cooperative digitization, microfilming, etc.
  • Exchange of in-house publications
  • Exchange of expertise.

 

2.2. International Scenario

 

Considering the compulsions of resource sharing many libraries have come together to join hands to form library networks operating at international level such as – The International Nuclear Library Network (INLN), WHO Library and Information Network for Knowledge (LNK), Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations (NDLTD), Access to Global Online Research in Agriculture (AGORA), HINARI – Access to Research in Health Programme and so on. Two of them are being discussed in some details.

 

2.2.1 Online Computer Library Centre(OCLC)

 

Online Computer Library Centre (OCLC) is playing a vital role in the field of library cooperation. It is a global library cooperative, owned, governed and sustained by members. OCLC formerly known as Ohio College Library Network was initially set up ―as a non-profit, membership, computer library service and research organization dedicated to the public purposes of furthering access to the world‘s information and reducing information costs‖ in 1967 by Ohio College Association with the idea of linking computer technology with library cooperation to reduce costs and improve services through shared, online cataloguing. OCLC expanded its wings from the state of Ohio to Unites States and by 1973 it crossed the boundaries of United States.

 

The public purpose of the OCLC as they have declared is —―that we will work together to improve access to the information held in libraries around the globe, and find ways to reduce costs for libraries through collaboration‖.

 

The on-going two projects of OCLC in the field if library resource sharing are as follows:

 

WorldCat: WorldCat is the world’s largest network of library content and services. WorldCat libraries are dedicated to providing access to their resources on the Web, where most people start their search for information.

 

WorldShare: WorldShare is a new interlibrary loan service that will replace WorldCat Resource Sharing. The project expand sharing of resources beyond traditional borrowing and lending. Through WorldShare libraries can participate in a global resource sharing network of more than 9,000 libraries.

 

2.2.2. Research Libraries Information Network (RLIN)

 

The Research Library Group (RLG) was founded in 1974 jointly by Columbia University, Harvard University, Yale University and New York Public Library as a corporation owned by some universities and research institutions whose libraries participate in its information resource management programmes. In addition to owner members, several affiliated members from art institutions; law schools, etc. also joined the group. The group adopted BALLOTS (Bibliographic Automation of Large Library Operations using a Time Sharing System) of Stanford University. Thus, Stanford joined the group and became the host institution for RLG‘s machine facility and central staff. The RLIN (Research Libraries Information Network) system became the base for each of RLG‘s four principal programmes – Collection Management and Development; Shared Resources; Preservation and Technical Service and Bibliographic Control.

 

The initial goal of the institutions in RLG continues to inform RLG‘s programmes and services to its members: to build a shared on-line database of their library collections, and cooperation in acquisition, delivery, and preservation of information. RLG member pool their expertise and create projects to improve local and global access to research information, and to contribute to the creation and promulgation of best practices and standards in information management and delivery.

 

In June 2006, RLG merged with OCLC. Its catalogue became part of OCLC‘s WorldCat. Eureka databases were migrated to OCLC‘s FirstSearch service.

 

2.3. National Scenario

 

Resource-sharing activities in Indian libraries can be grouped broadly into four categories writes Rao. These are National Information System in Science and Technology(NISSAT), Library Consortia like INDEST, UGC-INFONET, Document Delivery Service like INFLIBNET Document Delivery Centre and Interlibrary Cooperation for exampleThe IICT-CCMB library (two laboratories have a common library premises)

 

Some of the other initiatives are discussed in details hereunder:

 

2.3.1.   National Union Catalogue of Scientific Serials in India (NUCSSI)

 

National Union Catalogue of Scientific Serials in India (NUCSSI) is the first indigenous database that serves as an ideal tool to access Journal holdings information. Journals are the main source of Science and Technology information. NUCSSI is a data repository of a large number of unique journal titles and library holdings belonging to major universities, S&T institutions, R&D units of industries, higher institutes like Indian Institute of Science (IISc.), Indian Institute of Technology (IITs) and professional institutes spread all over the country.

 

2.3.2.National Knowledge Resource Consortium (NKRC)

 

CSIR-DST Libraries Consortium was formed in April 2009. This CSIR-DST Libraries Consortium has now been named officially as National Knowledge Resource Consortium (NKRC). All the member organizations of DST are able to access additional electronic resources which are available to CSIR libraries through this consortium. Through this all the libraries of DST are provided online access to additional journals of various publishers, in addition to the regular subscribed journals of each library

 

2.4. Public Library Networking

 

Public library resource sharing and library cooperation through a public library network has been the focus area and main developmental direction for modern day public libraries. Networking opens new possibilities and promotes development of library innovation. However some argue that wiring up of public libraries will widen the digital divide and will have a significant impact on those who are left behind economically, socially, and culturally.

Objectives of a public library and information network are to:

 

  • Establish effective communication amongst users of member institutions;
  • Encourage inter-library cooperation and resource sharing;
  • Help to member libraries in their automation, retro-conversion of bibliographic records and development of standardized databases;
  • Make union catalogues to provide access to the collection available in member libraries;
  • Provide access to computerised databases of participating libraries;
  • Offer document delivery services to member libraries;
  • Rationalisation of acquisition of information resources in member libraries and optimize their usage through resource sharing;
  • Adapt protocols and standards, guidelines, methods and procedures for bibliographic records, their storage, inter-library loan, etc;
  • Provide training to members of library staff of participating libraries for effective use of libraries in the network;
  • Guide member libraries in the effective implementation and utilisation of current and upcoming information technologies;
  • Form consortium to provide access to information resources at reduced rates; and
  • Promote collaborative digitisation projects.

 

2.5. Advantages

 

  • Public Library Networks save on money and manpower;
  • They help, to an extent, in controlling of Bibliographic information overload;
  • Avoiding duplication with rational acquisition; and
  • Improve the mobility of information.

 

2.6. Network Based Services

 

  • Shared Cataloguing – the Library of Congress paved the way for shared cataloguing in 1901 by doing centralised cataloguing and distributing printed catalogue cards for the benefit of other libraries. This service saves time; follow the standards and saves manpower. The shared cataloguing can be done for various types of library resources like monographs, serial publications and non-print materials.
  • Online Reference–This network based service deals with the cooperative cataloguing of internet resources. This is done by creating a web page and providing a list of web links to the information source on the internet. Subject gateways are the example of this service.
  • Shared Circulation – Participating libraries cooperate and allow members of the participating libraries to get the documents on loan. However, this is possible where the geographical distance does not matter much. Otherwise, Document Delivery Service is used to provide document to a member.
  • Inter -library Loan–With the help of union catalogue, the service of inter-library loan is offered by the participating libraries. Development of ICT has given birth to the fully automated inter-library loan service like VDX.
  • Database Services –library networks subscribe to the electronic databases using consortium and allow the users of their respective libraries an access to those subscribed databases.
  • Other Network based Activities are:

 

o Collective Acquisition

o Consortium Purchase

o Cooperative Storage

o  Joint Training Programmes for Users and the Staff

 

3. Bibliographic Standards and Formats

 

Bibliographical standards play an imperative role in not only library resource sharing but in library networking as well. Bibliographic standards and formats suggest actually the standardisation of – structure, content and coding of bibliographic records at all levels of network i.e. national, regional and international levels.

 

The Library of Congress took lead in design and development of such a standard for bibliographic record format for the purpose of communicating bibliographical information to a large number of libraries. It was in 1966 when Machine Readable Catalogue (MARC) was launched. Later in 1999, US MARC and CAN/MARC joined hands and came out with the MARC21 format.

 

On the other side, IFLA (International Federation of Library Associations) had established in 1972, a working group on content designators. The format developed by the working group was named as UNIMARC.

 

UNESCO set up an ad hoc group in 1978 which developed the Common Communication Format (CCF). CCF helps in exchange of records between two or more computerised systems. CCF also converts the data in its processing format into the common format

 

4. Library Networks in India and Abroad

 

4.1. India

 

The development of library and information networks in India can be traced to the National Library and Information Policy document in 1988. As a consequence, NISSAT (National Information System for Science and Technology) took initiative followed by INSDOC (Indian National Scientific Documentation Centre) and UGC (University Grants Commission) for establishment of the library and information network as follows:

 

Table 1: Some Library Networks in India

Network Promoter Executive Agency Coverage Started
CALIBNET NISSAT Calibnet Society Kolkata 1992
DELNET NISSAT Delnet Society Delhi 1990
PUNENET NISSAT C-DAC,  Poona  University  and NLC Pune 1992
ADINET NISSAT Adinet Society and INFLIBNET Ahmedabad 1993
BONET NISSAT National Centre Software Technology Mumbai 1994
MALIBNET INSDOC Malibnet Society Chennai 1993
MYLIBNET NISSAT Mylibnet Society Mysore 1994
BALNET Balnet Society Bengaluru 1995
INFLIBNET UGC Inflibnet Society India 1991

 

4.2. Abroad

 

US – Bibliographic Retrieval Services (BRS), National Medical Library (NML), Western Library Network (WLN), OCLC, RLIN

 

UK –The British Library Automated Information Service (BLAISE), British National Bibliography (BNB), British Library Document Supply Centre (BLDSC), The London and South Eastern Region (LASER), Electronic Access to Resources in Libraries (EARL), The Joint Academic Network (JANET), Consortium of University Research Libraries (CURL)

 

Others- China Academic Library and Information System (CALIS) Australian Academic and Research Library Network (AARLN)

 

5.  Role of Internet in Resource Sharing

 

Internet and related technologies have immensely contributed and strengthened the library cooperatives, library networks and library consortia. This is to the extent that use of internet and its services has become indispensable for library resource sharing, library networking and formation of library consortia. This extensive use of internet has made the information globalized. Time and distances have ceased to matter in transfer of information. Technological developments of the last three decades have had a tremendous impact on librarianship in general and information resource sharing in particular. The World Wide Web and Internet surrounded with fast processing computers and scanners, online catalogues and bibliographic databases, e-mail, automated inter-library loan systems, specialized inter-library loan software together have enabled library resource sharing in ways beyond imagination. Internet and other developments have brought librarians throughout the world closer to solve problems of access, and speeding up the transmission of ILL requests and document delivery.

 

6.  Recent Trends

 

Most library networks are trying to provide access to e-resources through some consortia based acquisition. This arrangement suits the trio – libraries, users and publishers.

 

Secondly, the libraries are fast adopting and taking advantage of cloud computing not only to promote their core areas like hosting of data, archives etc., with regard to future development of libraries but also using it for sharing their resources. Libraries are taking advantage of cloud computing to transform into more efficient and effective service providers. Indeed, cloud computing has brought us a new perspective to look at the shared resources and information activities.

 

7. Summary

 

Ever since the inception of modern libraries, no single library has been able to afford to purchase, house, preserve all the information needed by its members. This has forced the libraries to enter into some arrangements of resource sharing followed by library networking and library consortia. These arrangements have helped the libraries, its patron and the society at large. Barriers of time and distance in getting information through library resource sharing have almost disappeared. Many modules (such as OCLC, BLDSC etc.) of library cooperation are successfully working at local, national and international levels. With the technological advancement, efforts are being made to exploit these for the betterment of library cooperatives and networks.

 

References

 

1 Koontz, Christie and Gubbin, Barbara Ed. IFLA Public Library Service Guidelines. 2nd completely revised edition. Berlin/Munich: De Gruyter Saur, 2010. p. 100.

 

2 Indira Gandhi National Open University. Information Technology Basics: Information Systems

 

and Networks. BLIS 07, Unit 4. New Delhi: IGNOU, 2010. p. 41.

 

3  Indira Gandhi National Open University.Academic Library System. MLIE-103, Unit 12-14. New Delhi: IGNOU, 2010. p. 193-252.

 

4 Access URL: http://www.oclc.org/about/default.htm

 

5  Kumar,P.S.G. Fundamentals of Information Science. 2nd ed. Delhi: Indraprastha Books and Periodicals. 2006. Pg. 381.

 

6 Indira Gandhi National Open University. Academic Library System. MLII-103, Unit 12-14. New Delhi: IGNOU, 2010. p. 319-398.

 

7  Rao, N Laxman. Knowledge-Sharing Activities in India. Library Trends, Vol. 54, No. 3, Winter 2006 [In] Library Resource Sharing Networks. Edited by Peter Webster. pp. 463–484.

Access URL: https://www.ideals.illinois.edu/bitstream/handle/2142/3622/Rao.pdf?sequence=2..

 

8 Network Cooperation of the Russian public libraries.

 

Access URL: http://www.lbd.lt/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Iana_Skurikhina.pdf

 

9 Martinez, Katharine. The Research Libraries Group: New Initiatives to Improve Access to Art

and Architecture Information. Paper presented at pre-conference workshop of the art libraries section at the 63rd IFLA General Conference in Copenhagen, 30 August 1997

 

10 Benegal,V. Digital Scholarship and Resource Sharing among Astronomy Libraries: A Case Study of RRI library. Proceedings of the 2012 Meeting of the Working Group of IAU Division XII Commission 5 on “Libraries” held in Beijing, China, 23 – 24 August 2012.

 

Access URL: http://dspace.rri.res.in/bitstream/2289/5494/1/Vrinda_IAU.pdf

 

11 Srikumar, M. G. Role of the Internet in Enhancing the Resource Sharing and Enriching the Information Resources in the Special Libraries in India : An Investigation.

 

Access URL:http://dspace.iimk.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/139/1/

 

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Abbreviations

 

  • BALLOTS: Bibliographic Automation of Large Library Operations using a Time Sharing System
  • C-DAC : Centre for Development of Advanced Computing
  • CAN/MARC: Canadian Machine Readable Catalogue
  • CCMB: Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology
  • CSIR-DST: Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – Department of Science and Technology
  • FirstSearch: FirstSearch provides access to a core collection of reference databases. The FirstSearch Base Package includes WorldCat as well as other databases. Users of WorldCat.org and WorldCat Local can access these FirstSearch databases through a user-friendly single-search box.
  • ICT: Information Communication Technology
  • IFLA: International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions
  • IICT: Indian Institute of Chemical Technology
  • ILL: Inter- Library Loan
  • INDEST: Indian National Digital Library in Science and Technology
  • INFLIBNET: Information and Library Network
  • MARC: Machine Readable Catalogue
  • R&D: Research and Development
  • RLG: Research Library Group
  • RLIN: Research Libraries Information Network
  • S&T: Science and Technology
  • UNESCO: United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation
  • UNIMARC: Universal Machine Readable Catalogue
  • USMARC: United States Machine Readable Catalogue
  • VDX: Virtual Document Exchange
  • WorldCat: WorldCat represents a “collective collection” of the world’s libraries, built through the contributions of librarians, expanded and enhanced through individual, regional and national programmes. WorldCat represents the electronic and digital materials most in demand by information seekers, as well as the important, unique items found only in local libraries.