Thursday, October 22, 2009

Digitization in College Libraries

Bo Andrews

Library documents have been around since the scrolls at Alexandria. These documents have very simple formats: ink crafted on a canvas. Imagining elctronic files of books instead of countless shelves with books is a very hard concept to grasp. While New York University has begun to digitize its library, the concept of employing electronic readings as the main sources is necessary in order to preserve many oringinal documents.
College Libraries host many students and groups that are studying or conducting research. Having the capability to access many sources through library computers presents a substantial benefit by creating a greater variety with less actual space. With less space needed for bookshelves, more tables and computers can fill in the open space. According to McMillan Memorial Library, digitizing college libraries can not only provide more sources, but also preserve the original documents and allow for "far superior access."
According to The Chronicle of Higher Education, New York University is beginning to digiitze some sources its its main library. In order to provide global access for its students in Abu Dhabi, NYU has taken an influential leap into the employment of technology in higher education.
Digitizing college libraries has systemic effects. While more college libraries install digital sources, the more students will be able to use those resources through their own computers; consequently, more library tables will be open to study and work in groups. The digitization in college libraries is a win-win situation for every side.

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