Target groups and topics covered
	The modules in the course "Digital Libraries à la Carte: Choices for the Future" were targeted, but not limited, to the following groups. Module 1 Trends and Strategy (Topics) Module 2 Technology (Topics) Module 3 Consortia and Licensing (Topics) Module 4 Open Access (Topics) Module 5 Teaching and Learning (Topics) Library manager/directors X X X X X Deputy librarians X X X X X Library middle management X X X X X Digital library project managers X X X X X IT or systems librarians X X X X Information specialists X X Licensing officers X Library training officers X Publishers X X X IT people X Courseware developers X Researchers X
	Topics Module 1: Trends and Strategic Issues for Libraries (Monday 22 August)
	This module took a look at the larger picture and discerns trends in the society at large, trends in the search and publishing industry, as well as trends that pertain more directly to the library world. Topics covered ranged from the ongoing developing of the information and knowledge society to increasing competition, cf. the major digitization projects that are underway (Google Scholar, Google Print and Google Library), and from the strategy of a major publisher to the possible responses to these developments from libraries under increasing budgetary pressures. You can also check the day's programme or the abstracts of the lectures presented that day.
	Topics Module 2: Technological Developments: Threats and Opportunities for Libraries (Tuesday 23 August)
	Technology is still evolving in a rapid pace. While libraries have embraced new technologies like digital reference services, the question is whether they will also adapt to the new modes of working which young people are now developing. During this day, light was shed on four emerging technologies that will affect library strategy. Wikis as collaborative working environments are increasing in popularity. While most libraries probably dislike Wikipedia, this tool might have possibilities for libraries as well. The day also covered access management: how to get rid of the simplistic IP range method of authentication and offer your patrons anytime, anywhere access to your digital collections? Shibboleth might well be the answer. Portable devices are becoming ever more powerful, a single notebook can hold a complete library of electronic books and journals, while mobile phones and PDAs might be an interesting platform to deliver new library services. And finally, 2004 was the year of the blog. While some librarians have started their own blogs, the opportunities are much greater. In a practical lecture it was showed why. You can also check the day's programme or the abstracts of the lectures presented that day.
	Topics Module 3: Library Consortia and Licensing (Wednesday 24 August)
	While there seems to be a retreat from the 'big deal', it looks like consortia are here to stay. We started off with the history of library consortia and considered the question whether there is still a future for them. We then looked at the concept of e-collections and how these change collection management, while at the same time new partnerships are emerging to build stronger services for library patrons. Running a consortium is still a challenge. We learned from the experiences of the director of one of the world's largest consortia and received some hands-on training in consortia management. You can also check the day's programme or the abstracts of the lectures presented that day.
	Topics Module 4: Open Access and Institutional Repositories (Thursday 25 August)
	Open Access has - at least in the library world - long been seen as a possible solution to the serials pricing crisis. Yet, if we look back at the past ten years, there have been huge developments in infrastructure and debate, but a real change in the scholarly information chain does not seem to be any nearer. Looking back, we picked up some inspiration for devising new strategies that bring the true goal of Open Access - accelerating research - closer. It is now widely accepted that the commitment of scholars is essential in bringing the desired change forward. How to bring about that commitment was dealt with in a practical session in the afternoon, based on the experiences in several institutions. You can also check the day's programme or the abstracts of the lectures presented that day.
	Topics Module 5: Libraries and Teaching and Learning (Friday 26 August)
	E learning is changing the nature of teaching and learning, the support of which is one of the main tasks of any library. Change implies challenges as well as opportunities for the library. These challenges and opportunities were explored first to set the wider framework. We then moved on to one of the central issues in the relationship between libraries and teaching and learning: information literacy. We learned from experts in the field how to set up information literacy activities at your home institution and how to assess the effectiveness of these activities. The day concluded with a closer look at physical and virtual learning landscapes and the presence of the library in both. You can also check the day's programme or the abstracts of the lectures presented that day.

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last updated 19 September 2005