Cloud Computing in Libraries

 

    Cloud computing, simply put, is a service in which online services allow library users access to shared resources, information, and even software, anywhere in the world via an internet network. Information is stored on a server device accessed through the internet, and referred to as "the Cloud".    

    With technological advancement and an increase of users connected to the internet, access to cloud content has become vital. In his article "Local Content and Cloud Services Are Driving Innovation", author Terence K. Huwe explains "as content repositories atomize into smaller domains that can be monetized differently, the cloud offers a new sandbox for discovering how to link collections and reduce costs—in support of our user communities. The teaching role of the library advances, and library services find a new home in the hearts and minds of people—as well as in the cloud." What this means is that for libraries, cloud content has become a new tool for collection development, and information access, in which worldwide collaborations are possible to increase the available content for users, all while decreasing the associated costs, far below what it would cost libraries to maintain independently. 

    Librarians use Cloud technology to enhance capabilities in data management, utilizing platforms such as OCLC WorldShare, Ex Libris Alma, and BiblioCommons, to improve user experience and better access services that the library has to offer. Patrons at the branch of the San Diego County Library I work at, love using BiblioCommons, as it puts the resources of the library and library partners right at their fingertips. Through this service, not only can they access the full catalog of the entire County Library system, order material holds, access e-books and view digitally curated collections, but they can navigate to learning software and learn a new language, instantly! By demonstrating that libraries are keeping pace with the latest technology, the Library will remain a vibrant resource in each community.

Looking to learn more? Cloud Computing continues here:

https://www.scientificworldinfo.com/2021/03/application-of-cloud-computing-in-libraries.html

https://www.bibliocommons.com/

How are Libraries Using Cloud Computing?

Works Cited

Huwe, Terence K. “Local Content and Cloud Services Are Driving Innovation.” Computers in Libraries, vol. 42, no. 3, Apr. 2022, pp. 9–11. EBSCOhost, search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=lxh&AN=156035132&site=ehost-live&scope=site.