The End-User Revolution

Although much has been written about the transitionary nature of CD-ROM technology, its essential contribution to liberating the end user will be its lasting legacy. The Internet has continued this process and further diminished the need for what has traditionally been meant by the role of the intermediary. With the virtual library becoming a reality, librarians and publishers are having to re-define their roles in this end-user environment. Information professionals do have an important role to play so long as they adapt their skills and expertise to this new context. This book illustrates how CD-ROM and the Internet are revolutionizing LIS services and user access to information, and highlights the future role and novel opportunities which are becoming available to information professionals.