e- library is a library in which collections are stored in digital formats (as opposed to print, microform, or other media) and accessible by computers. The digital content may be stored locally, or accessed remotely via computer networks. The advantages of e-libraries as a means of easily and rapidly accessing books, archives and images of various types are now widely recognized by commercial interests and public bodies. In addition to providing content over network e-library also allows users to get access to database of conventional books online and reserve (borrow) books online. E-Library also provide study content for distant learning purposes.
Traditional libraries are limited by storage space; e-libraries have the potential to store much more information, simply because digital information requires very little physical space to contain it. As such, the cost of maintaining an e-library can be much lower than that of a traditional library. A physical library must spend large sums of money paying for staff, book maintenance, rent, and additional books. E-libraries may reduce or, in some instances, do away with these fees. Both types of library require cataloguing input to allow users to locate and retrieve material. E-libraries are more willing to adopt innovations in technology providing users with improvements in electronic and audio book technology as well as presenting new forms of communication such as wikis and blogs; An important advantage to e-Library is increased accessibility to users. They also increase availability to individuals who may not be traditional patrons of a library, due to geographic location or organizational affiliation.
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