Helen wrote:
> Wouldn't it be great if we could find some way of merging all these
distributed databases?
Wouldn't it have been great if we hadn't all gone off and done our own thing
in the first place?
On 13 Nov 2001, I posted to this list:
"The same waste of effort applies to recommended websites/links. I can
understand duplication of effort when it comes to selecting stock, because
you can't use it unless you are in one specific location. But with Web-based
resources they are accessible to everyone wherever they are."
This caused a flurry of comment (look back at the list archives), but no
action. With the predictable result that we've all managed to find time from
somewhere (and I know of at least two colleagues who found the time and
resources at home) and there has been duplication of effort.
Perhaps, in retrospect, it was a useful training exercise for so many staff
to carry out this work, and explore the Web as they did so. But is right
that would should continue? Let's hope that the recently announced £500,000
from NOF to build a "virtual reference shelf" might go someway to addess
this.
Incidentally, our links are at www.cyberlibrary.org.uk. In our
implementation of the PN we have ensured that anyone can access these sites
on a library PC without any formality (joining, logging on, etc.) Offlist
comments about them are welcome.
Chris
--
Chris Goddard
Resources & Information Manager
Plymouth Library Services
Tel/fax: (01752) 305900
Visit us on the Web:
www.plymouthlibraries.info
|