Hybrid library

The hybrid library is a term used by librarians to describe libraries containing a mix of traditional print library resources and the growing number of electronic resources. Hybrid libraries are mixes of traditional print material such as books and magazines, as well as electronic based material such as downloadable audio books, electronic journals, e-books, etc. Hybrid libraries are the new norm in most public and academic libraries.

It seems that the term "hybrid library" was first coined in 1998 by Chris Rusbridge in an article for D-Lib Magazine [ [http://www.dlib.org/dlib/july98/rusbridge/07rusbridge.html Chris Rusbridge: "Toward the Hybrid Library", D-Lib Magazine, July/August 1998.] ] .

Hybrid libraries evolved in the 1990s, when electronic resources became more easily available for libraries to acquire for public use. Initially these electronic resources were typically access to material distributed on media such as CD-ROM or searches of specialised databases. The OCLC helped push libraries towards acquiring digital resources by providing a centralized technology resource for participating libraries [Malinconico, S. Michael: "Digital Preservation Technologies and Hybrid Libraries," "Information Services and Use", 159(74): 173.] . Now, with the widespread availability of digital content, it includes Internet resources and documents which are online, such as eprints.

Hybrid libraries are the new norm for many archivists as well. Digitization has changed the way archivists have gone about preserving historical items. Archivists are now using digital technology to preserve items that were once only preserved by things like microfiche. Archivists now use things like digital imaging which make it possible for researchers to see historical items online. [Malinconico, S. Michael: "Digital Preservation Technologies and Hybrid Libraries," "Information Services and Use", 159(74): 162.]

The emergence of the hybrid library has put a new emphasis on copyright issues for many libraries. The complicated and changing copyright laws in both the United States and the European Union have made it a challenge for many libraries to make sure their patrons are using the digital items lawfully. [Oppenheim, Charles: "Copyright Issues in Digitisation and the Hybrid Library," "Information Services and Use", 203(7): 204.]

Hybrid Libraries need staff that are trained in helping patrons navigate the vast amount of information available in the digital age. Librarians working in hybrid libraries now must have training in electronic media as well as the traditional print forms.

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