Shows how XML is applied to digital library systems. Compares major features of XML with those of HTML and describes an experimental XML-based metadata retrieval system, which is based on the Dublin Core and is designed as a subsystem of the Korean Virtual Library and Information System (VINIS). (Author/LRW)

Discussion of weighted index terms in information retrieval focuses on a method for adjusting index weights by processing text in digital libraries that has been highlighted by users. Considers weights in query processing; feedback sources; active reading while accessing digital documents; collaborative information retrieval; and improving index…

Addresses the question of whether interest in downloading into local electronic libraries is a reflection of user needs or is being generated by those who have something to sell. Growth of online services, growth of local computer capacity, purposes of a local electronic library, and sources of data are highlighted. (EJS)

This interview with Stephen M. Griffin, program manager of the Digital Libraries Initiative at the National Science Foundation, discusses the terms "electronic library,""digital library," and "library of the future"; electronic access and intellectual access; implementation and social effects of digital libraries; the…

Discusses digital intellectual property rights relating to peer-to-peer networks, using Napster as an example. Suggests anti-piracy solutions to prevent litigation and considers how libraries can develop potential service models using peer-to-peer networks, including the development of personal libraries on the Internet, interlibrary loan,…

Discusses networked document imaging systems and describes necessary software features. Highlights include desktop workstations; network architecture; modular application software; images from a variety of formats; merging images with text; editing functions; managing an electronic library; document delivery formats; and printing. (LRW)

Compares a digital reference service that uses instant messaging with traditional, face-to-face reference based on experiences at the Southern Illinois University library. Addresses differences in reference questions asked, changes in the reference transaction, student expectations, bibliographic instruction, and librarian attitudes and procedures…

Provides a framework for the design and development of an intranet model based on a consortia approach by the Indian Institutes of Management (IIM) digital library system that will facilitate information access and use by providing a single Web-enabled window to users to their own resources and to sources in other participating institutions.…

Examines the development of electronic books and traditional libraries in relation to the history of books and publishing. An ongoing project is described that is developing two forms of electronic books: hyper-books (built from paper books) and visual-books (built from electronic texts). (22 references) (EAM)

Explains the EEVL (Edinburgh Engineering Virtual Library) which has developed a free gateway to Internet resources in engineering as part of the United Kingdom's Electronic Libraries Programme. Highlights include project development, promotion of the service, evaluation, and plans for future developments. (Author/LRW)

This interview with Walt Crawford, a senior analyst for the Research Libraries Group, discusses his objections to the term and concept "digital library," the persistence of print versus the prospect of all-digital libraries, the economic and ecological disadvantages of all-digital libraries, expanding traditional library and university…

Discusses four megatrends from John Naisbitt's book--"Megatrends"--which have particular relevance to the electronic library: shift from industrial to information society; need to balance high-tech with high-touch; focus on self-help over institutional help; and change in organizational structures from pyramid hierarchies to networks.…

Outlines the service rationale, software and technology considerations taken by the Pennsylvania State University library in planning towards online, real-time reference services and provides an overview of the planned pilot project. Discusses recent trends in academic electronic libraries, including providing value-added services to support…

Discusses the impact of information technology requirements on the costs of electronic libraries. Addresses key questions concerning hardware, software and network installation and upgrades and provides strategies for dealing with the needs for continuous funding and long-term financing that are essential for keeping up with the requirements of…

Describes Pen-DOR (Pennsylvania Education Network Digital Object Repository), a digital library designed to provide K-12 educators with access to multimedia resources and tools to create new lesson plans and modify existing ones via the World Wide Web. Discusses design problems of a distributed, object-oriented database architecture and describes…