The Digital Age and Local Studies

Summary: This book examines the impact of recent electronic developments (particularly the Internet) on local studies librarianship. The recent explosion in use of the Internet has been matched by an increased interest in local, family and community history, all areas in which local studies libraries excel. This book brings these two developments together. The book provides practitioners with practical advice on the provision of web-based services for users. Such areas as e-geneaology and e-learning are covered. Importantly, the book provides examples of best-practice and shows how practical lessons can be learned from the experiences of the innovators in the field. Key Features: Nothing comparable in print and has contemporary relevance Increased recognition of the importance of local studies Covers the electronic revolution which has not been addressed in this field Increased interest amongst library users Contents: Introduction Exploding the myth of parochialism - focuses on web-based resources that have been developed within local studies departments E-reference and enquiry services for local studies - examines issues associated with providing enquiry services as part of a web-based local studies service Remote users and local materials - examines the provision of greater access to local materials, including practical guidelines on the types of materials which should be made available electronically E-genealogy and the library - addresses the ways in which the library can optimise the use of its own genealogical materials as well as examining the most important external electronic resources for family history and show how these can be exploited in the library E-collaboration andco-operation - practical guide to web-based collaboration and co-operation between local s