Chapter 1 - Introduction

Abstract

With the evolution of technology, libraries today are beginning to adopt many parallel changes, starting from automation to electronic resources (e-resources). It has therefore become mandatory for library professionals to possess technical skills and redefine their roles in the process, so as to meet the technologically advancing scenario. Adoptability and acceptability are concepts that are used in the case of both users and library staff. A librarian thus becomes an electronic resource manager or digital librarian. This chapter discusses the importance of e-resources, and how the concept of electronic resource management (ERM) has emerged over time. To understand the background of e-resources and how it relates to management, some related research work has been detailed. This chapter also discusses the role of e-resources in higher education, the role of an e-resource manager, the parity of e-resource management in library management, and other emerging thoughts on the new dynamics of ERM.