Special Collections on the World Wide Web: a Survey and Evaluation

Abstract

Reports results of a preliminary analysis and questionnaire survey of selected UK university libraries known to have both significant special collections available on the World Wide Web and which are active in using these to promote the libraries. Interviews were conducted with those involved in the development of the Web sites. The special collections resulted from Electronic Libraries Programme (eLib) funding and the study aimed to examine the outcome of these initiatives and to assess their value in giving access to special collections across the Internet. Particular attention was given to the issue of online or virtual exhibitions. Concludes that: the principal objective of special collections Web sites is to publicize collections and provide information for potential users; Higher Education Funding Councils’ non-formula funding has played a significant part in enabling such sites to be developed; many sites are still in an early stage of development, making it impossible to judge their likely future impact; and there is some evidence of a shift of enquiries towards electronic mail contacts from a distance, including researchers from outside the UK.

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