The impact of technology on user-centric discovery

Abstract

The amount of resources and information available to users seems infinite, but what is actually discoverable and accessible is much less in comparison. Among the many longstanding roles of libraries is guiding users to the resources that they need, and although technology has expanded the possibilities of this service, it has also exposed new risks and challenges. Libraries also have a unique position within the technology-driven marketplace, as both a content consumer and a content provider. They also have conflicting objectives-protecting users while competing for users. This paper explores these dynamics that result from the impact of technology on library user-centric strategy and solutions.