Digital libraries have a very short history. But they attracted a lot of attention, a lot of activities and funding in both practical developments and research, and a lot of discussion in a variety of constituencies from librarians and computer scientists to publishers, academics, and managers. The activities on a variety of topics under the term "digital libraries" are booming all over. But are the underlying concepts clear?

The essay combines results from readings (see below) and the exercise (see Exercise 1). On the basis of the readings AND the exercise for this week, and any other readings that you may choose on your own (found in print or on the Web), as well as on the basis of your experiences (including those from the exercise), and your opinions write a short essay on the topic:

Discuss different or differing conceptions that have emerged from various perspectives, such as different fields, agendas, goals, and activities. What do they see, for instance, as a "digital library" in research, and what in library practice? What is essential for an information system or a library to be considered a "digital library?" How well is the concept defined and agreed upon? What are the characteristics of Rutgers digital library efforts, as a particular, working example?

What do you think about all this? How do you understand "digital libraries?" As mentioned, in addition to any readings, you can use your own experiences or the experience from Exercise 1 to make comments. By definition, an essay is an opinion, rationally presented.

In a way, the whole course covers this topic, thus this essay is just a beginning of a semester long discussion and process of learning together. Treated it that way.

No page length is specified. But be brief and concise. As for all assignments, follow the format prescribed in the syllabus. However, the style and organization of the essay is completely in your hands, or rather mind and imagination.

Readings:

Arms, W. (Book cited in the syllabus). Ch 1. Libraries technology and people.. Ch.3 Libraries and publishers.

Borgman, C. (Book cited in the syllabus).Chapter 2. Is it digital or is it a library? Digital libraries and information infrastructure.

Lesk, M. (Book cited in the syllabus).Chapter 1. Evolution of libraries.

Schwartz, C. (2000). Digital libraries: an overview  The Journal of Academic Librarianship, 26(6), 385-393.