Developing a Digital Library: Scale Requires Partnership

Abstract

Digital library technology presents new opportunities for academic libraries to expand access to their collections. A full-scale digital library project involves complex development issues and problems. Collaboration through academic-industry partnerships has emerged as an important strategy for libraries to better leverage resources, minimize risks and increase expertise. The inclusion of faculty and students in the development process further ensures that the system will serve the needs of the academic community locally and remotely. The Marist College multimedia digital library project models the development process and structure of a partnership with a major technology company, information industry vendors and other academic institutions.