Key Elements of the Australian Library and Information Infrastructure

Introduction

The National Library has developed this document to provide an overview of the key elements of Australian library infrastructure. Its aim is to provide a simple overview framework to help understand current structures, projects and initiatives, and to provide a useful starting point for discussing the strategic development of future library infrastructure initiatives. The document does not aim to evaluate the effectiveness of the activities and projects listed.

Projects and initiatives have been classified according to whether they are primarily concerned with the following key elements:

  • Resource discovery - included in this element are activities and projects that aim to assist in the identification and location of library materials. Inter alia, they may pertain to improving the functionality of databases, search engines and catalogues, and improving information about the resources held by various libraries, or other information sources;
  • Resource access - these are projects that facilitate access to the actual item once the existence of the item has been discovered. These projects are often concerned with resource sharing, including interlibrary loan, and document delivery services;
  • Preservation and provision of long term access - included in this element are activities and projects to ensure library materials are preserved in an appropriate manner, and in particular that digital materials are captured and preserved using systems and standards that will provide continued future access; and
  • National collaboration - included in this element are structures and projects which aim to enhance and leverage the benefits of national cooperation in the in the further development of Australia's library infrastructure.

Activities and projects have been grouped according to whether they focus on print or digital resources, whether they are established, ongoing initiatives, or whether they are projects that are currently being planned or are underway. Under the heading Policy Frameworks, guidelines, codes, or other documents that provide an agreed national framework are listed. Lastly, international projects in which the Australian library sector is involved are identified. Explanatory notes about each project or initiative listed are included to provide additional information. Where available, hyperlinks have been provided so that further information can be found on these activities.

Projects or initiatives have been selected for inclusion in the document based on an assessment of their national library infrastructure value. This has meant that a number of State, regional and local projects have not been included. Similarly, projects concerned with the creation of digital content have not been included. While these projects are numerous and important, this document has focused on identifying the activities and projects that together define the elements of Australia's national library infrastructure.

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