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What Is a Cloud Library?

Meaning, features, and examples

📌 Quick Summary:
A Cloud Library is a library system where digital resources and services are hosted on cloud computing platforms instead of local servers, enabling anytime, anywhere access through the internet.

What Is a Cloud Library?

A cloud library is a library system in which digital library resources, services, and applications are hosted on cloud computing platforms instead of on local servers.

In simple words, a cloud library uses cloud technology to store, manage, and deliver books, journals, databases, institutional repositories, and library services.

Key Features of a Cloud Library

• ☁️ Remote access to e-books, e-journals, and databases
• 🔄 Scalable storage based on demand
• 💰 Cost-effective with no local servers
• 🔐 Centralized data security and backup
• 🤖 Support for AI-based services and analytics
• 📱 Device-independent access

Examples of Cloud Libraries in the World

1. World Digital Library (WDL)

Developed by UNESCO and the Library of Congress, providing free access to cultural heritage documents.

2. HathiTrust Digital Library

A collaborative digital repository of universities hosting millions of digitized books.

3. Google Books

A cloud-based platform for searching and previewing digitized books worldwide.

4. Internet Archive

A non-profit digital cloud library offering free access to books, audio, video, and archived websites.

5. Europeana

A cloud-based digital platform providing access to European cultural heritage.

Cloud-Based Library Management System (LMS) Examples

• OCLC WorldShare Management Services
• Ex Libris Alma
• Koha (Cloud-hosted versions)
• EBSCO FOLIO

References

1. 1. World Digital Library
2. 2. HathiTrust Digital Library
3. 3. Internet Archive
4. 4. Europeana
5. 5. Armbrust, M. et al. (2010). A View of Cloud Computing. Communications of the ACM.

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