In a recent Inside Higher Ed article focusing on the latest “Greta Van Susteren vs. library” controversy, we are reminded by Edward Van Gemert, university librarian at the University of Wisconsin, that “the library facilitates access to content, both online and through in-person visits” to support “research, teaching and learning.” As pointed out throughout this article, the relevance of the library and librarians to the research process is in both the physical and online environments.
As Van Gemert highlights, and Van Susteren likely doesn’t understand, the connection between the two library environments – physical and online – is through the people that work in them. Those that work in the library are contributing to, accessible through, and creating the online experience that makes research easier for library users. Through technology like discovery services, librarians are able to influence and provide assistance in numerous ways in the online environment, like they have and will continue to do within the physical environment.
Discovery solutions have transformed libraries by unlocking collections, enhancing librarianship, and enriching the research process. With its growing importance in supporting academic excellence, library discovery continues to evolve rapidly and represents a vital gateway for researchers and students to access information sources.
But what is next for discovery services? How can libraries further connect and improve research and discovery at the library?
In an upcoming ACRL Choice webinar on November 15, librarians from Cornell University and Ex Libris will investigate these types of questions by exploring what lies ahead for discovery services and investigating possible improvements.
Join us to learn how focusing on data, user experience, and emerging academic workflows – facilitated by technology innovations – will continue to fuel discovery advances that benefit libraries and patrons.
Speakers:
- Peter McCracken, Electronic Resources Librarian (Cornell University Library)
- Jesse Koennecke, Director, Acquisitions & E-Resource Licensing Services (Cornell University Library)
- Eddie Neuwirth, Director of Product Management – Discovery Services (Ex Libris, a ProQuest Company)
If you are not able to attend this free session, you can register anyway to ensure that you receive the recording of the event.
