With so many of a library’s resources in digital format, especially in large library systems, a host of new skills and knowledge emerge for creating or selecting, organizing, managing and providing access to these digital resources. It’s an interdepartmental effort within the library, involving cataloging, preservation, systems and technology. Digital Resources staff:
Select, organize and maintain the library’s collection of digital resources
Demonstrate working knowledge of programming languages applicable to digital resources
Develop and manage interface services to provide integrated access to the library’s resources
Pursue efforts to sustain and improve the digital resource systems and services
Electronic resources now command a significant portion of a library’s collections budget in addition to the staff time to manage them. The management of eResources introduces new challenges in terms of license agreements, “ownership,” budget priorities, distribution, access and more. eResource Management staff:
Develop and manage the library’s collections of electronic resources
Provide distributed access to the library’s collections of electronic resources
Digital Resources/eResource Management ranked #1 out of 51 self-identified urgent training needs. It ranked #12 out of 60 topics staff would like training in. 59% (74) of respondents indicated they would like training at the Beginner level, 26% (33) would like training at the Intermediate level, and 19% (15) would like training at the Advanced level.
Digital Resources/eResource Management is identified as a CORE skill for Sussex County libraries.
Safety - Provide a safe environment for staff and public, ensuring privacy, confidentiality, and physical well-being.
Courtesy - Treat everyone with kindness and respect.
Knowledge - Be aware of library policies, procedures, and resources.
Efficiency - Provide accurate and timely service with the best use of tangible and intangible resources.