'TILE' project explores challenges facing libraries in the changing environment
A new briefing paper has just been published by Jisc, which informs dialogue around the current and future role of the library in a rapidly changing technological landscape.
The Modelling the Library Domain briefing paper resulted from Jisc’s TILE project (Towards the Implementation of Library 2.0 and the eFramework); a programme of work with two key aims. Firstly, TILE investigated how libraries have incorporated web 2.0 applications and services into what they already do. Secondly, it sought to develop a draft conceptual framework (Library Domain Model) based on services it has specified for the international e-Framework. The project also makes recommendations on how the library community could the make the best use of web 2.0 approaches.
The TILE project was inspired by several key studies which indicated that libraries needed to review their services to remain more responsive and relevant to users’ changing needs and expectations in the web 2.0 world. These authoritative studies include the Jisc and SCONUL Library Management Systems Study and the Jisc and the British Library ‘Google Generation ’ report.
The draft library domain model will be discussed at the Jisc Conference on 24 March in Edinburgh as part of the 'Towards the Academic Library of the Future' session. A consultation event for the library community to input into the draft domain model is also being planned for summer, details of which will be provided on the Jisc website.
The TILE project complements Jisc’s broader discussions in the library realm. Jisc has also initiated consultation with RIN, RLUK, SCONUL and the British Library to work together on a common dialogue to focus on the major strategic issues libraries need to address. Some of the key issues facing libraries will be discussed at the Jisc Conference, as mentioned above, and also at the Libraries of the Future event at the Bodleian Library in Oxford on 2 April.