Abstract

The editorial function has been characterized by a strong systems component, in the sense that all chain elements are closely interrelated in a necessary concatenation. The emergence of digital technologies has led to a breakdown of this logical structure, altering traditional mediation and intermediation systems and allowing the disappearance of some essential elements. Thus, roles such as the publisher or distributor, essential elements in an analog environment, may disappear in some of the models that are being generated. In line with this, new business models are also emerging and new actors in this field, with concurrent advantages which their previous experiences allow them. Amazon, Apple and Google are taking a strong position in the electronic book market.

Abstract

The most important events of 2009 in the world of libraries are noted. There are three main areas: technology, information and libraries themselves. The first area includes the development of integrated library management systems and the situation of the so-called discovery tools. In the information area, major developments in digitization of content are discussed, focusing on Google Books and Europeana and mentioning the impact of economic crisis on a library’s ability to purchase information. Regarding libraries in general, 2009 highlights were Oclc internationalization and the new roles that libraries can assume in an environment that blurs their duties. Finally, challenges for libraries in 2010 are identified: to continue incorporating electronic information, keep adjusting to a changing environment, and find a way to create an alliance that would include files, libraries and museums.

Abstract

To some degree the Open Access Initiative has failed, because too few people, even in the library profession, know of its existence. More marketing should be done, thus making more people aware of it. MARC became obsolete and has to be superseded by xml-based standards. With the advent of Google, people don’t have any problems finding information. Instead they have problems knowing what to do with once they acquire it. A next generation library catalog should allow people to first find items in a library collection, and then to use the information in some way. Public libraries are devoted to their community. If they focus too much on books, then their future is less positive. If they think in terms of data, information, and knowledge, their future is only as limited as their imagination.