Cloud computing in libraries: Leverage the cloud to provide Library services

Libraries are all about sharing. As such, they are positioned to take advantage of the cost savings and mobility – two of the most compelling reasons offered - which cloud computing provides. Opposed to endless maintenance and staff training required for on-premise networks, cloud solutions offer an all-in-one infrastructure package for rent. However, due to the personally identifiable information which libraries store on patrons, security would be a barrier, as it is for most companies, and libraries would need to consider leveraging the cloud for certain applications while maintaining user data or other sensitive business information on premise. Thus, the best option for most libraries will be along the continuum of hybrid cloud computing, in which hardware and software both on-premise and in the cloud are leveraged to create a best of both for everyone. 

Managers in the library world know that budget constraints are a hot topic. What’s also hot is watching technology trends to know when the right time to invest in the cost of shifting from on-premise to cloud services will be. According to Ashkok, CEO of Unfold Labs, IT executives can expect a rise in cloud computing trends, and basic economics tells us that as availability increases, cost decreases. See the full article by Ashkok on 8 Trends in Cloud Computing for 2018 to get the full picture and an explanation of each cloud trend shown below.

The second most compelling reason for libraries to consider using cloud computing is to meet the needs of the future user base with mobile applications. A continuing trend toward online education should mean a lot to various types of libraries who all share one common driver: the patron. Users of the future will have been raised on technology, taught through technology, entertained at the tap of a finger, and able to access information anywhere. All of these impact not only the way they think but also their expectations for interaction with information. Clemmitt suggests that based on research, “a transformative shift in education to the personalized, student-focused, lifetime-learning model that the Information Age demands will happen…it’s just a matter of when.” Shouldn’t libraries be at the forefront of the shift, as the trustees of so much knowledge? Shouldn’t libraries provide systems that interact seamlessly with user expectations, making them easy to use and desirable as a first-stop for information needs? As information curators and suppliers, shouldn’t libraries be up to date and current in ways they present information to the world?

The bottom line: 

Budgets would have welcome relief and patrons would have better experiences. 

There are definitely some considerations that need to be made, and hybrid solutions which are now available now can do the job. Consider taking a detailed, technical look at the components which libraries must consider when leveraging internet and digital technology to deliver information. Review the presentation below by Dr. Hirwade, who does an excellent job giving a complete overview of a complex subject in terms that most people can understand. Pay special attention to the Network, Hardware and Software components, which is the main area cloud computing can lighten the load for library IT departments.

 

References

Ashkok, A. (2018). 8 Trends in Cloud Computing for 2018 [Blog]. Retrieved from https://medium.com/@Unfoldlabs/8-trends-in-cloud-computing-for-2018-d893be2d8989

Clemmitt, M. (2011, December 2). Digital education. CQ Researcher, 21, 1001-1024. Retrieved from http://library.cqpress.com/

Hirwade, M. (2012). Digital libraries components [Videorecording]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/embed/j4pCUkkbWAM

Elaine Meyer is a contributor to the Tech Trek blog. Read more about the blogger team on the About Us page.