Special Libraries in the Electronic Environment

Information and communication technology (ICT) presents new opportunities and challenges for libraries in general and special libraries in particular. Special libraries are passing through a phase of dramatic transformation due to the ongoing challenges being posed by information and communication technology (ICT). Thus, they are challenged to explore new ways to accept and implement the changes to be competent enough to serve the experts, scientists, and research workers, etc, who always demand specialized services pin pointedly. Most of the scientific information today is available in new variety of formats like sites, etc, which requires knowledge of specialized information handing techniques. The book, Special Libraries in the Electronic Environment, provides information on various aspects of special librarianship. The book has been divided into sixteen chapters, providing sound basis on ‘how to work in an electronic environment.’ It provides information on digital, electronic, virtual and gateway libraries. Special emphasis has been given on the emerging areas like e-publications, networks and consortia and marketing of information products and services, etc. It covers whole gamut of activities taking place in special libraries and provides clear explanation on them.