From conventional to digital libraries: Differences and convergences

Abstract

The differences and convergences between traditional and digital libraries are discussed. Four aspects are analyzed in this paper, i.e.: 1) the organization of the information where it is shown that the digital library has - an information power that will hardly be reached by the conventional library, as information can be directly delivered to the user's desk; the future of the library catalog is also discussed and compared to search engines and mass digitalization projects; 2) the access to information, pointing the present as the right time to start the integration of sources and electronic materials into library collection and services; 3) economical aspects showing that many libraries try to obtain helpful information sources in the external environment, and digitalize their contents to make them available to its clientele; 4) cooperative actions, observing that library cooperation activities increased, not only to reduce costs but also to facilitate survival of the library as a social institution. Finally, the article points out that the challenge to change is a great opportunity for revitalization of the library, impelling it to continue to be a space for joy and learning.