Steve Hiller, Science Libraries
The University of Washington Libraries is in the midst of a transition to an electronic library. During the past decade, the Libraries has added services that allow users, from their own desktops, to view library holdings in our catalog, search a wide range of bibliographic databases, and request and receive a variety of services electronically. Users can look up a book, place a hold, request a renewal, find an article, and locate a journal without leaving their homes or offices.
While the Libraries remains an important physical place for users, especially students, and print-based materials continue to be an essential part of the Libraries, the array of information resources in electronic formats available to a desktop computer is increasing. Electronic journals and newsletters, dictionaries and encyclopedias, indexes and catalogs are all becoming available both from local networks and through Internet connections.
In addition to the ability to search catalogs and indexes from their desktops, Libraries users have a range of services available to them from remote locations. Users may renew materials and place holds at any circulation desk, by phone, and e-mail. An automated renewal form is now on the Libraries Web page.
Circulation notices such as overdue reminders can be sent to personal e-mail addresses. Interlibrary loan requests can be made via e-mail at borrowme@u.washington.edu, and reference assistance is available by phone or e-mail. Also, an expanding Web page offers easy connections to a variety of services and information (http://www.lib.washington.edu/).
UW faculty and students are ready for this transition. A recent survey of faculty and students revealed that they are connected to the electronic world through computers in their offices, homes, labs, and the Libraries. Survey results show that while 70% of faculty use the Libraries at least weekly, much of that use is taking place from office or home:
Many faculty indicated they use more than one means of access. Graduate students, and to a lesser degree undergraduates, also make extensive use of networked computing and information resources outside the library walls. When asked to choose their top priorities from a list of 12 choices, faculty and students all chose as top priority the provision of electronic services and resources:
The UW Libraries Strategic Plan for 1995-1996 reinforces this move to electronic access and lays out objectives that will move the organization further toward this goal. At the heart of this effort is the vision of the user-centered library. (See the Libraries Vision Statement.) Users need library services and access to materials when the Libraries are closed; the ability to request assistance and materials according to their own schedules (not just during the hours the Libraries are open and staffed); and access to information not held by the Libraries. Remote electronic access helps meet these needs.