DEFINING THE BOUNDARIES OF DIGITAL LIBRARIES: A REVIEW

In an academic environment, the term “Digital Library” is used apparently in two dimensions. While researchers view digital libraries as content collected on behalf of user communities, librarians view them as institutions or services. There is an increase input in the research-oriented definitions on digital libraries which serve to stimulate researchers focus their attention on issues that needs to be address which have expanded considerably throughout the late 1990s. On the other hand definitions pertaining to the library community highlight the practical challenges that need to be addressed in the process of transformation of research libraries and universities. However, there exists a certain level of uncertainty while using the term “Digital Library” or digital libraries when viewed from these two domains. While this state of ambivalence further stimulates the rapid advancement of research however it may impede implementation of digital libraries. Further, broad array of digital library definitions and assumed statements also focus on technology, content, collection and communities, institutions or services relevant to this aspect and in accordance to a specific purpose for a particular digital library. However, review indicates that lately general elements which are common to all definitions of the digital library were clearly identified with a vision for the future which stirs up a sense of assurance to both researchers and librarians alike.